Collins says Green Party remains strong despite resignations

Green list MP Fa'anānā Efeso Collins says the party remains strong following their co-leader James Shaw's shock resignation, coming off the coat tails of Golriz Ghahraman's shoplifting scandal.

"I don't think there's been any weakening of the party," Fa'anānā says.

"What we have got is the desire to really pull together and do well.

"Our focus remains on getting things done which is addressing climate change, ending poverty and having a sustainable environment."

Watch our full interview with Fa'anānā Efeso Collins below:

Shaw served as both New Zealand's Climate Change Minister for over six years and the Greens co-leader for nine.

Fa'anānā says his resignation is "really sad" as he valued Shaw's commitment and leadership

"He was a very effective minister of climate change and did really well especially with the zero carbon act," Fa'anānā says.

"So really disappointed that he's decided to step away from the leadership."

However, Shaw will remain in Parliament to support his Members Bill which Fa'anānā says is "great".

"He provides real stability and strength. Very collaborative person and real clarity and that's one of the things I've enjoyed about his leadership," Fa'anānā says.

"I want to thank him for his service and wish whatever those next steps might be."

Shortly before Shaw's retirement then-Green MP Golriz Ghahraman made headlines for stealing up to $10,000 worth of boutique goods. She would then step down to recover her mental health, exiting a long career that Green Party co-leaders said was plagued by sexual and physical threats from day one.

Green Party co-leaders who faced questions about Ghahraman's resignation at the time. Photo/Te Rito/Mary Afemata

"Obviously the situation with Golriz was really difficult and we have reached out to her and continue to stand alongside her," Fa'anānā says.

"She's been a great member, she's done some wonderful things. First refugee MP, had a real mind for justice, stood up and been a vocal supporter for what's happening in Gaza," he says.

"We're really sad for her and continue to support her through all of this."

A recent polling found support for the Greens surged to 15.5 per cent, the highest it has been for the since October 2022.

Observing this Fa'anānā says it is important to continue building off the success of their campaign, continuing to prove to New Zealanders that they will "take the nation forward".

"That's only going to come about when people realise we're a strong team prepared to get out into the community," he says.

"Hearing what people have to say and making sure we turn those words into real action in Parliament."

Moving forward for the Greens

Fa'anānā will not comment on whether he wants to fill Shaw's shoes but does say that now is a time to pause and reflect on their next moves.

"The co-leadership is about having a vision for Aotearoa, someone who's going to stand up and stand strong."

He says he wants the next co-leader to represent the "evolving nature" of their party through the championing of causes like climate justice.

Fa'anānā says looking at the Party's votes picking up in urban parts of the city, particularly in South Auckland, is a good indicator on who should fill that role.

"That's the Pacific vote. Young people in particular that are keen on climate justice and that's what I think the leadership needs to reflect.

"I haven't made any decisions at this stage yet but that's definitely what I'd like to see."