The hunt for a new coach for the Black Ferns has begun, after it was confirmed that Allan Bunting will depart his role when his current contract ends.
New Zealand Rugby confirmed the news this morning and said it follows an "extensive review" following the Women's Rugby World Cup.
It was a disappointing tournament for the side, who finished third as defending champions.
NZR general manager of professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said the Black Ferns programme had made "major strides" but "ultimately fell short of their goal of winning the Women’s Rugby World Cup".
“Following a thorough review process post the Women’s Rugby World Cup, we are now inviting applications for one of the most significant leadership roles in New Zealand sport,” Lendrum said.
“We are heading into an incredibly exciting four-year cycle of the professional women’s game, with a new competition calendar and the first Women’s British and Irish Lions tour in 2027. A robust process to ensure we find the best candidate to take the Black Ferns forward is imperative.
“This role is an opportunity to continue driving the growth and success of women’s rugby in New Zealand and take the Black Ferns programme to another level."
Lendrum acknowledged Bunting for his "level of commitment and contribution" to the Black Ferns and women's rugby.
Bunting became coach of the Black Ferns in 2023 after serving as coach of the women's sevens team, as well as Chiefs Manawa head coach.
Lendrum said the "positive impact" Bunting had left on the women's game was "immence".
"He has been a part of the growth of our women’s pathways and the development of players, while remaining focused on a culture which nurtures and supports people to thrive.
"The Black Ferns have reached a new level of professionalism in their approach to a high-performance environment. Allan and his team have delivered a strong foundation for the next four-year cycle and the team’s attempt to win a record seventh Women’s Rugby World Cup."
Bunting said it was an "absolute honour" to have served as head coach.
"I’m incredibly proud of what we set out to achieve together, from building connections, growing the depth of our wāhine, and enhancing this group to represent Aotearoa with mana on and off the field."
“I care deeply about women’s rugby in Aotearoa. Over the past 14 years, I’ve been honoured to contribute across both the Sevens and Fifteens programmes, experience pinnacle events such as the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, World Series and World Cups. To have played a role in the growth of the women’s game during this time has been a privilege.
“What I value most are the connections I’ve made and the people who I’ve met throughout my journey. I’m energised for the next chapter and look forward to new opportunities to lead, grow and contribute within high-performance sport.”
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