New Zealand Rugby has appointed Whitney Hansen as the new head coach of the Black Ferns, the nation’s elite women’s rugby team, with her tenure set to run until the end of 2027. Hansen takes over from Allan Bunting and becomes only the 13th person to lead the Black Ferns, as well as the second woman in history to hold the role, following Vicky Dombroski in 1994.

Hansen’s Coaching Journey

Hansen, daughter of former All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen, brings extensive experience at all levels of women’s rugby in New Zealand. A former Matatu coach, she was part of the coaching staff when New Zealand defeated England to win the 2022 Women’s Rugby World Cup at Eden Park as an assistant coach.

Her career includes:

• Assistant coach for Canterbury’s set-piece from 2020-2023, winning two Farah Palmer Cup titles in three years.
• Head of rugby for Matatu, leading the team after their 2023 Sky Super Rugby Aupiki title win.
• Inaugural head coach of the Black Ferns XV in 2024.

Future Plans for the Black Ferns

Hansen will oversee 11 Tests in 2026, followed by a historic series against a touring British and Irish Lions women’s squad in 2027. She will be assisted by Tony Christie and former England centre Riki Flutey, with the wider coaching and management team to be confirmed in the new year.

Speaking about her appointment, Hansen said:

“It’s an honour to be asked to lead the programme and an exciting time to take on the role of head coach. There is generational talent coming through in women’s rugby in New Zealand, and the new international calendar represents a huge opportunity to further enhance the legacy of the Black Ferns. I can’t wait to get started.”

Legacy and Impact

Under Hansen, New Zealand aims to maintain its dominant presence in women’s rugby. The Black Ferns have won six of the previous seven Women’s Rugby World Cups, though they were knocked out in the semi-finals of the 2025 edition by Canada before defeating France to finish third.

Hansen’s appointment marks another milestone in women’s rugby leadership, highlighting the growing opportunities for female coaches at the highest levels of the sport.