Allan Bunting new Black Ferns sevens coach

New Black Ferns Sevens coach Allan Bunting with captain Sarah Goss at the announcement at Mount Maunganui yesterday. Photo: John Borren

The Bay of Plenty connection with the Black Ferns sevens team continues with today's announcement of the new head coach.

Rotorua born, former Steamers player Allan Bunting replaces Tauranga's Sean Horan for the next four year cycle culminating with the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

Bunting has been the assistant coach of the team since 2012 during which time he helped the team win three World Series titles and silver at the Rio Olympics.

"Obviously I am very honoured and privileged to be in this position, definitely very excited about the challenges we have ahead of us," Bunting said.

"We are very lucky and blessed here in New Zealand to have such potential and talent, not just players but coaches and resources.

Allan Bunting playing for the Steamers in 2002. Photo/File

"I am really excited about maximising what we have and aseeing it showcased on the world stage."

Bunting says getting the right people involved is the biggest challenge.

"We need to set the foundations from the start for what we have ahead of us. If we get two years ahead and think we haven't got that right, then it is pretty hard to catch up.

"My style is that I like to involve everybody. I have a real belief in these girls and I think getting to the end result means involving the players as much as possible.

"Over the years it has been about consistency and giving the players as much chance and as much opportunity to gather that experience, so that when they do get to that big stage they are pretty comfortable with what they are doing."