Whitney Hansen has been announced today as the new Black Ferns head coach after being appointed through to the end of 2027.
Hansen will oversee 11 Tests next year followed by the British & Irish Lions Series in 2027.
She succeeds Allan Bunting as the 13th Black Ferns head coach and is the second woman to hold the position since Vicky Dombroski in 1994.
"It’s an honour to be asked to lead the programme and an exciting time to take on the role of head coach," Hansen said.
"There is generational talent coming through in women’s rugby in New Zealand and the new international calendar represents a huge opportunity to further enhance the legacy of the Black Ferns. I can’t wait to get started."
Hansen was an assistant coach to the Black Ferns during their triumphant Woman's Rugby World Cup 2021 campaign (played in 2022) and will be joined in her new role by assistant coaches Tony Christie and Riki Flutey.
She most recently served as Matatū's head of rugby, having previously coached Canterbury’s set-piece group to two Farah Palmer Cup titles.
"Whitney is the right coach at the right time for the Black Ferns and we’re excited about what she will bring to the Black Ferns environment over the next two years," said New Zealand Rugby chairman David Kirk.
"Her depth of character, commitment, knowledge of the game and understanding of our pathways stand out and she has a proven track record at every level.
"The Black Ferns have a challenging and exciting 11-Test schedule in 2026, and we firmly believe Whitney is the person to lead the programme through what will be a period of significant growth for women’s rugby in New Zealand and globally."
The wider coaching and management group is set to be confirmed in the new year.
Hansen is the daughter of former All Blacks coach Sir Steve Hansen.
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