Reappointed All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has spoken of the challenges he is looking forward to, including next year's World Cup and the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand in 2017.
As expected Hansen was today reappointed for two more years, his contract extension announced by New ZealandRugby Union chief executive Steve Tew.
Hansen, who took over as head coach from Graham Henry following the 2011 World Cup, said he felt honoured to be supported by the NZRU board.
"It's a privilege to be part of the All Blacks and not something you could ever take for granted," Hansen said. "After getting the support of my family and various team personnel to continue, I asked myself if I still had the hunger and desire to continue in the role, which I do, so the decision to continue became a no-brainer, because there is no better job in world rugby.
"Whilst I am well aware that there is a lot of work to do, I am really looking forward to the future, starting with 2015 and the opportunity and challenge that awaits us at the Rugby World Cup. 2016 will bring its own challenges with a number of senior players likely to be moving on and then 2017, when the British and Irish Lions tour, which will be massive.
"Finally, I would like to thank my wife Tash and family for their ongoing love and support. Without that, I wouldn't be able to do the job."
The All Blacks have won 38 of their 42 tests during Hansen's tenure.
Tew said: "Steve is the first All Blacks coach to be given a contract extension beyond a Rugby World Cup which demonstrates just how much faith the Board and our wider organisation, together with the All Blacks players and management, have in him.
"He has huge experience and under his guidance the All Blacks have reached remarkable heights. To have him re-sign as head coach through to 2017 gives the All Blacks the continuity they will need as they make the transition into 2016 and beyond, following next year's Rugby World Cup."
