Whitney Hansen follows in dad's footsteps with Black Ferns coaching job
NEWS: Whitney Hansen has been appointed the new Black Ferns head coach, taking charge through to the end of 2027.
Hansen, daughter of former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen, becomes the 13th coach of the Black Ferns since 1991 and only the second woman to hold the role.
She succeeds Allan Bunting and will lead the team through an 11-Test programme in her first year before a historic British & Irish Lions Series in 2027.
“He’s been super supportive in backing myself and being me and the best version of that. We always have cool conversations around the rugby and will continue to do that,” Hansen said.
Calling the role an honour, Hansen said it was an exciting time to take over, pointing to the depth of talent coming through women’s rugby in New Zealand and the opportunities presented by the new international calendar.
She also said she hopes her appointment will inspire more women and girls to pursue playing and coaching pathways in the game.
A former Canterbury player and teacher by profession, Hansen brings extensive coaching experience across all levels of the sport.
She served as a Black Ferns assistant coach during their successful 2021 Women’s World Cup campaign, was part of Matatū’s 2023 Sky Super Rugby Aupiki title-winning side, and has led Canterbury’s set piece during multiple Farah Palmer Cup triumphs.
Most recently, she was the inaugural head coach of the Black Ferns XV in 2024.
Hansen will be supported by assistant coaches Tony Christie and Riki Flutey, with the wider coaching group to be confirmed in the new year.
New Zealand Rugby chair David Kirk said Hansen was “the right coach at the right time,” praising her proven track record, understanding of the pathways and leadership qualities.
NZR general manager Chris Lendrum echoed those sentiments, describing Hansen’s vision for the programme as outstanding and signalling the start of an exciting new era for the Black Ferns.
