Warrior princess sells 'best friends'

Lucy Lawless shows off the art that she is auctioning for a Greenpeace fundraiser. Photo / Jason Dorday

Eco-warrior Lucy Lawless' heart is as big as her art. The world-renowned Greenpeace supporter is putting up pieces from her collection of New Zealand art for a global auction to help build the Rainbow Warrior III.

"I think I have maxed out what I can expect from family so these two pieces are things I have bought myself," Lawless told the Herald on Sunday.

"They are the first two things I bought with my first money from Xena: Warrior Princess."

The Michael Parakowhai prints of the Lone Ranger and Tonto titled You're My Best Friend have been greeting guests at the top of the stairs in the Mission Bay home Lawless shares with film-producer husband Rob Tapert.

"I think we will fill the space with some family photos now, but it is heartbreaking to see them go."

Lawless bought the prints 11 years ago for $6000 each.

They have recently been valued at $15,000 each.

The executive director of Greenpeace NZ, Bunny McDiarmid, said Lawless' support was invaluable.

"She has such a down-to-earth way and is really helping shift people's thinking and encouraging them to act."

Greenpeace NZ wants to raise $350,000 for a wet room on board the new boat.

The auction runs until September 21, and bidders could also vie for a dinner with Lawless - in New Zealand or Los Angeles - a picnic and hike with actress Patricia Arquette or a trip aboard the new Rainbow Warrior III once it is launched.

On Friday, bidding on www.charitybuzz.com for dinner with Lawless was at $4500.