No hard feelings from new Green Party co-leader

New Green Party co-leader James Shaw. Photo / Fiona Goodall, NZ Herald

There's a promise of no hard feelings, from the new Green Party co-leader, to his former competitors.

The months-long campaign was mostly a clean race, but fell victim to a bit of snarkiness when Kevin Hague remarked James Shaw might not be able to connect with regional New Zealand, calling him "too metrosexual".

Mr Shaw said the comment wasn't meant to be a dig, and he won't hold it against Mr Hague.

"I think that he is honestly one of our top MPs, and I'm really looking forward to him playing a senior role in caucus going forward."

But he might have to do without another senior MP.

Former co-leader Russel Norman isn't confirming or denying rumours he's eyeing an exit from the Green Party.

Dr Norman won't answer questions about whether he'll still be an MP in year's time, but admits he's had job offers.

"When you announce you're stepping down from a position you get approached by various people, as you can imagine."

His focus is more short-term at the moment.

"Well, supporting James in his transition to be co-leader, and being a backbench Green MP. We'll see whatever else may come."

His new leader may need the support. Mr Shaw has set the audacious goal of quadrupling membership within the next two years - a target they can achieve by becoming more diverse, and being more accessible to a wide range of people.

"So one of the things we need to do more of, is ensure we have some really good strong Maori candidates, particularly in places like South Auckland."