Dave Rennie named first All Blacks coach of Pasifika heritage

Dave Rennie has been appointed the new head coach of New Zealand, becoming the first person of Pasifika heritage to lead the side.

The 62-year-old replaces Scott Robinson, who was sacked in January after two years following high-profile losses to South Africa, Argentina and England as well as reports of tension between senior players and All Blacks staff.

At a news conference in Auckland announcing his appointment, Rennie’s opening words in Maori were “Kia orana koutou”, which translate as “hello to all” or “hello everyone”.

Pasifika heritage encompasses the indigenous peoples of Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia, with Upper Hutt-born Rennie having Cook Islands links through his mother.

Having beaten Jamie Joseph to the job, he is tasked with taking the country to its fourth World Cup triumph when the tournament gets under way in Australia next October.

However, he will honour his role leading Japan’s Kobe Steelers before preparing New Zealand for their July tests against France, Italy and Ireland.

Describing himself as “extremely proud and honoured”, Rennie said he was “well aware of the expectations and responsibility of the role” as New Zealand bid for a fourth World Cup success.

“It’s a sprint from here,” said Rennie.

“We need to get the athletes in the best possible position to execute and play well.”