Dunedin-based list MP Metira Turei is a frontrunner to replace departing Green Party co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons who announced yesterday she would relinquish the role.
The Green Party will select a new co-leader in June to replace long-time activist and MP Ms Fitzsimons.
Four women are likely to put their names forward to replace Ms Fitzsimons who was elected to the co-leadership of the party along with Rod Donald 14 years ago when the Greens first created the positions.
Dunedin-based list MP Metira Turei is a frontrunner for the position and MP Sue Bradford has also put her name forward. At least two other nominations are likely to come from outside of
Parliament.
New MP Catherine Delahunty, a long-time co-president of the party, said she would not challenge for the position, the Otago Daily Times was told.
Ms Turei said she would step down from the ``musterer'', or whip role, in Parliament so she could campaign for the job.
Prime Minister John Key today paid tribute to Ms Fitzsimons.
"Even though we have not always agreed on policy positions, I do respect the way Ms Fitzsimons has carried out her role with integrity and belief.
"She has been a long-serving and effective leader for the Green Party, and only last week I enjoyed meeting with her and co-leader Russel Norman to discuss areas where we might be able to work together,'' he said.
