Aaron Mauger has been named as the new coach of the Highlanders, signing a three year deal with the Super Rugby franchise.
The 36-year-old will replace Tony Brown who is off to serve as an assistant coach of the Japanese national team under Jamie Joseph.
"I feel very honoured to join the Highlanders family and to lead the Highlanders as head coach," said Mauger.
"The club has become a consistent performer at the top of the competition in recent years and we look forward to the challenge of growing our game and achieving great things as a club."
Meanwhile, Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark described Mauger as a high-calibre appointment.
"Aaron has demonstrated to us the passion, commitment and dedication to coaching at the club that we believe are vital at this level," Clark said.
Mauger's appointment locks in an impressively experienced coaching team for 2018, with Mark Hammett, Clarke Dermody and Jon Preston all confirmed to remain with the club.
Recruitment for an additional assistant coach (defence) will commence over the next month.
The 46-Test All Black previously served as an assistant coach at the Crusaders under Todd Blackcadder and was head coach of English Premiership side the Leicester Tigers, but was sacked earlier in the year.
Mauger also recently served as an assistant coach with Samoa for their one-test against the All Blacks at Eden Park.
Newshub.
