Russel Norman says one of his main objectives as the Green Party's new co-leader will be to broaden the party's support base.

The 39-year-old Australian says that is critical to the Greens' future.

But his election has some wondering whether his very left-wing views will be detrimental.

The man himself does not believe that is a problem.

Russel Norman says the Greens have a number of strands, including a left-wing strand, but he says the party also has a conservative element.

He is, however, reluctant to contemplate working with National in the future.

Dr Norman says any sort of post-election relationship will depend entirely on National changing its policies, not the Greens.

Russel Norman accepts he will never be another Rod Donald.

But he says he is bringing his own passion and commitment to the job.

Dr Norman does not believe that being outside of Parliament will be a problem.

He says it provides opportunities for one co-leader to focus on community work and party-building in a way that having both co-leaders in Parliament did not.

Russel Norman is the party's former campaign manager, steering the campaign at the 2005 general election.

Co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons says his election signals new beginnings for the party.

She says she is delighted to have him alongside her, and she is looking forward to forging a good working relationship.

Ms Fitzsimons says Dr Norman's age is also a plus, as the party looks forward.

She says his election is the beginning of the passing over of the torch to the next generation.

Russel Norman won the ballot overwhelmingly at the party's annual general meeting in Wellington yesterday.

The vote was under the STV system and he won it on the first ballot.

MP Nandor Tanczos was thought to be his nearest rival.

Mr Tanczos says he feels no bitterness over losing out on the top job.

He says Russel Norman is a great choice.

Mr Tanczos suspects Dr Norman will take a while to find his stride.

But he says he is sure he will get there.

He says Russel Norman will work out how to be effective, because he is very intelligent and very competent.

He says he is committed to helping the new co-leader settle into the job.

Nandor Tanczos says he is not sure why he did not win.