New Zealand name Dave Rennie as first All Blacks coach of Pasifika heritage
Dave Rennie has been appointed as the new head coach of New Zealand, becoming the first person of Pasifika heritage to take charge of the three-time world champions.
The 62-year-old replaces Scott Robinson, who was dismissed in January following a turbulent two-year tenure.
Robinson departed after high-profile losses to South Africa, Argentina and England alongside reports of internal friction.
Making history in Auckland
At a news conference in Auckland, the new boss opened with the Maori greeting “Kia orana koutou”, translating to “hello to all”.
Upper Hutt-born Rennie has Cook Islands links through his mother.
Pasifika heritage encompasses the indigenous peoples of Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia.
Having beaten Jamie Joseph to the role, the veteran tactician is tasked with securing a fourth World Cup title.
That tournament begins in Australia next October.
Before taking charge for July tests against France, Italy and Ireland, he will honour his current commitment to Japan’s Kobe Steelers.
Rennie described himself as “extremely proud” to accept the responsibility.
“It’s a sprint from here,” said Rennie.
“We need to get the athletes in the best possible position to execute and play well.”
Experience across the ditch
New Zealand Rugby chairman David Kirk cited Rennie’s extensive experience as a decisive factor.
His CV includes a stint coaching the All Blacks’ trans-Tasman rivals, Australia, between 2019 and 2023.
During his time with the Wallabies, he oversaw 34 tests.
The former Chiefs boss won 13, drew four and lost 18 matches during that period.
That record represented the lowest winning percentage of any Australian coach with at least 30 tests in charge.
Despite those statistics, his side secured notable victories over New Zealand and South Africa, though they also suffered a historic first defeat by Italy.
Culture and tactical shifts
Rennie emphasized that team culture would be a primary focus upon taking the reins.
He also indicated he has specific plans to alter the team’s playing style.
“[I’m] probably not going to go into massive detail around what that is or the changes we want to make because I don’t want to throw anyone in the previous regime under the bus,” he added.
“I’ve watched a lot of footy already. I’ve got some firm ideas around the shifts we can make that’ll make us better.”
