All Blacks coach Steve Hansen will remain in charge of the side through to the 2015 Rugby World Cup after earning a contract extension.
The New Zealand Rugby Union announced on Wednesday that Hansen, who took over from World Cup-winning coach Sir Graham Henry in 2011, will guide the side in their defence of the Webb Ellis Cup.
Hansen was initially appointed on a two-year deal and oversaw an All Blacks record of 12 wins, one draw and one loss in 2012.
“He (Hansen) had an outstanding first year as head coach and his coaching and leadership helped the team build on its exceptional legacy,” NZRU chief executive Steve Tew said.
Tew says the reappointment of Hansen, named the International Rugby Board’s coach of the year in 2012, was unanimously endorsed by the NZRU board.
Hansen said: “I am looking forward to not only the challenges that are coming this year, but right through to 2015. Having the opportunity to try and recapture the Webb Ellis Cup is something that I’m really excited by.”
Nine new All Blacks have been capped under Hansen and he says preparing the side for the future was crucial.
“We have to keep growing both our leadership experience so that we have more players who can make good decisions in the big moments and we need to grow our game so we stay in front rather than allowing others to catch up,” he said.
All Blacks manager Darren Shand has also had his contract extended through to the 2015 World Cup while Tony Page replaces Deb Robinson as the team’s doctor.