Clendon is content as party whip

Kerikeri-based Green Party list MP David Clendon.

Northland-based Green MP David Clendon has all but ruled out putting his hat in the ring to replace Russel Norman as party co-leader.

Mr Norman announced his intention to resign on Friday, the same day Northland MP Mike Sabin stepped down.

While Mr Clendon is ranked only No11 on the Green Party list, once Mr Norman leaves he will be the fourth-highest-ranking man in a party whose constitution requires male and female co-leaders.

That, along with his experience in business and academia, has prompted some to tout him as a possible co-leader of the party.

However, the Kerikeri-based MP said he was not planning to put his name forward.

"At this stage it's unlikely. There's some very good candidates and the sense is that my current position, party whip, is a better place for me," Mr Clendon said.

Male MPs ranked above Mr Clendon are Kevin Hague (currently No3), Gareth Hughes (5) and Kennedy Graham (7).