Former Black Ferns hooker Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate has accepted NZ Rugby's apology for her treatment on last year's northern tour and moved on from the damning review into team culture.
The 34-test veteran sparked the investigation, after claiming she suffered a mental health breakdown during the tour and was told she was only selected for her guitar-playing ability.
Her social media post last December resulted in World Cup-winning coach Glenn Moore stepping down from the role, replaced by a new management structure headed by former All Blacks mentor Wayne Smith.
Smith's tenure as 'director of rugby' began with a 23-10 victory over Australia on Monday - without Ngata-Aerengamate in the squad - and NZ Rugby has formally apologised for her suffering.
"NZR has formally apologised directly to Te Kura and her whānau for the experience that led to a decline in hauroa for her. NZR has taken responsibility for the systematic failings that led to this decline.
"NZR now wishes to repeat that apology to Te Kura publicly, and reiterates its commitment to ensuring Te Kura receives the appropriate mental wellbeing and training support require to help her continued recovery."
Fittingly, Ngata-Aerengamate, 30, has acknowledged the apology on social media, insisting she has put the ordeal behind her.
"Nga mihi aroha to all who have shown love and support throughout my tough time with speaking out," she posted. "It's been emotional for all involved and I would like to thank my partner, whānau, advisors, teammates and friends for the guidance and awhi during this time.
"Ka nui nga mihi to the review panel for their manaaki and their mahi. The Black Ferns and women's rugby will be so much better for it - that makes me happy.
"NZR, thank you for engaging and acting - together, we got there. I'm on the mend, enjoying my footy again with a free spirit."
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