Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman has announced today that he will stand down as leader at the party’s Annual General Meeting in May.
Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman has announced today that he will stand down as leader at the party’s Annual General Meeting in May.
Dr Norman will remain as Co-leader and retain his finance and climate change portfolios until the AGM.
“After nearly a decade as Co-leader, now is a good time to find a new challenge for myself, and to spend more time with my family” said Dr Norman.
“This is my ninth year as Co-leader and I think it’s time for a change. Now is a good time for new leadership for the Party.
“My replacement will start from a strengthened base and will have a full parliamentary term to establish himself in the role and take the Greens into government in 2017.
“I am proud of my contribution to the Green Party and the green movement and know that others will pick up and build on this work and take our party to even greater success.
“In my nine years as Co-leader we have more than doubled our electoral support to over ten percent. I am personally gratified to have been part of a team that led our Party to its two most successful election results ever.
“I have relished the opportunity to develop policy that is both good for the economy and good for the environment. Our policy work in the last election is a blueprint for modern progressive green government and I am proud to have played a key role in shaping that.
“Being Co-leader while raising a young family has been an interesting experience, one that I feel has enriched my political work and strengthened my passion for building a better world for the next generation.
"I want to thank my colleagues in the Green Party for their unwavering support during my nine years as Co-leader.
“In particular I want to thank Metiria Turei. Together we have built a true political force that serves New Zealanders well and offers genuine choice and leadership on the issues that matter.
“I will leave this role optimistic. Optimistic for our Party, our country and our world.”
Key dates for the election of a new Co-leader
20 March Nominations for leadership positions open.
17 April Nominations for leadership positions close.
18 April – 1 May Provincial 'meet the candidate' meetings held
30-31 May Election held at Green Party AGM
