Coach Steve Hansen has confirmed he'll be stepping away from the All Blacks after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
After a decorated seven-year tenure, Hansen said he'd be shifting his focus to his family while he considers his next coaching move.
"As only people who have done the job will understand, there are not only heavy demands on yourself, but also on your family," he said.
"My family has given me unreserved love and support over the last 16 years and I feel it's now time to make them the sole focus."
The 59-year-old said he was keen to make the announcement now in order to give New Zealand Rugby as much time as possible to recruit a successor and remove any distractions through next year's tournament.
"This is a critical process which shouldn't be rushed and shouldn't be made in the turbulent period that tends to follow a Rugby World Cup campaign."
After serving as an assistant to Sir Graham Henry, Hansen took over the head coaching role in 2012.
He lead the team through one of the most most successful periods in All Blacks history, which included a Rugby World Cup triumph, seven-straight Rugby Championship wins, and an undefeated reign as Bledisloe Cup holders.
"It's been a huge privilege to be part of the All Blacks for such a long time and I'm really looking forward to, and excited by the challenges, of the next 12 months.
"We'll be attempting to do something that has never been done before - to win three consecutive Rugby World Cups."
NZ Rugby CEO Steve Tew reiterated the All Blacks unrivalled success under Hansen's leadership.
"On his watch the All Blacks have had a winning rate of close to 90 percent - a remarkable run of sustained success and innovation," said Tew.
"As well as his success on the field, he will also be remembered for his bold selections and the way he and his management team provided the opportunity and environment for the players to achieve their full potential on the international stage.
"He cares deeply about the game and the wider issues facing it and his views are hugely respected not only in New Zealand but internationally."
Newshub.