Black Ferns Sevens captain Sarah Hirini has re-signed with NZ Rugby through to the end of 2026, after leading her team to repeat gold at the Paris Olympics.
Hirini, 31, overcame a serious knee injury to contest her third Olympics, after silver at Rio 2016 and gold at Tokyo 2020.
In the final, she suffered broken bones in her face but played through the pain.
"I love playing at this level and I love representing the Black Ferns Sevens," she said on the latest episode of the Relentless documentary series.
"I took a lot of time to think about what I wanted to do and I want to continue the legacy that's been made, not just on the field, but off the field too.
"I can't wait to see what the next few years have in store for us, we've got some exciting young players who are absolutely amazing. I want to be a part of their careers.
"I want to see how far they can push themselves and if I can help in a small way, I am excited by that opportunity."
The NZ women's sevens programme will likely undergo a transition in personnel before the next Olympics, with veterans Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Tyla King already announcing their retirements from the game.
Several others have dipped their toes into rugby league across the Tasman.
As a loose forward, Hirini has also helped New Zealand to two World Cup triumphs in the 15-a-side format.
"Sarah is an incredibly special human and we are stoked to have her as a part of this programme for the next two years," said Black Ferns Sevens coach Cory Sweeney.
"On the field, she is one of the best in the world, and off the field, the mana she brings is unmatched.
"She is the ultimate professional and having her continue in this programme means the next generation of players will get to benefit by learning what it takes to achieve on the world stage from one of the best."
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