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New Zealand Rugby has confirmed Dave Rennie as the new head coach of the All Blacks, entrusting the experienced mentor with guiding the national side toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The appointment follows the departure of former coach Scott Robertson earlier this year after an internal review of the All Blacks’ recent performances. New Zealand Rugby launched an extensive recruitment process before selecting Rennie to take over one of the most high-profile roles in world sport.
Rennie will officially begin the role later this year after completing commitments with Japanese club side Kobe Steelers. His first tests in charge are expected to come during the All Blacks’ mid-year international series.
Rennie brings a wealth of coaching experience across international and professional rugby.
The Upper Hutt-born coach first rose to prominence in New Zealand through his work with the national Under-20 side, helping guide the team to three consecutive junior world titles between 2008 and 2010.
He later achieved significant success with the Chiefs in Super Rugby, leading the Hamilton-based franchise to back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013.
Rennie’s coaching career has also taken him offshore, including stints with Scotland’s Glasgow Warriors and as head coach of the Australian Wallabies from 2020 to 2023.
New Zealand Rugby leadership say his international experience, ability to build strong team culture and understanding of the New Zealand game made him the right person to lead the All Blacks into the next World Cup cycle.
Rennie’s selection is also significant culturally.
He becomes the first All Blacks head coach with Pasifika heritage, with Cook Islands whakapapa through his mother.
The appointment has been welcomed by figures across the rugby community, who see Rennie as a respected leader capable of bringing experience and stability to the team as it prepares for the next major international campaigns.
Rennie has signed a contract through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, where the All Blacks will be aiming to capture a fourth global title.
With a new coaching era about to begin, attention will now turn to assembling the wider coaching group and preparing the All Blacks for a demanding international calendar.
For New Zealand Rugby, the hope is that Rennie’s experience across Super Rugby, international rugby and global competitions will help shape the next chapter of the All Blacks’ legacy.