New Zealand coach Graham Henry has dismissed reports he has decided to resign after the 2007 World Cup in France. The 60-year-old Henry, who oversaw his first match as coach in June 2004, was reported in the French newspaper Midi Olympique as saying he would step down following the tournament.

His assistant, Steve Hansen, had been groomed to take over and Wayne Smith would continue as assistant, the report said.

"We're all focused on coaching the All Blacks to the Rugby World Cup," Henry said in a New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) statement yesterday.

"Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith are both very talented coaches, which is great for New Zealand rugby. Our contracts are up after the Rugby World Cup, and the NZRU will look at what's best for the team at the appropriate time."

The NZRU confirmed Henry had yet to make a decision about his future.