Graham Henry has been re-appointed as New Zealand coach until 2011 after being given a new contract along with his two assistants, Wayne Smith and Steven Hansen, by the NZRU. Henry has won 57 of his 66 Test matches since taking charge in 2004.

"Graham, Wayne and Steve are outstanding coaches," said NZRU chairman Jock Hobbs in announcing the deals. "They have a formidable record and we hold them in very high regard. They are totally committed to New Zealand rugby and have become an important part of the wider organisation."

In addition to a winning percentage of 86% in Test matches, Henry and his team have ensured a steady flow of new silverware for the All Blacks.

They have won the Bledisloe Cup five successive times, collected four Investec Tri-Nations titles, swept the British and Irish Lions in 2005 and won grand slams in 2005 and 2008.

Although only announced now, Hobbs said the decision to re-appoint Henry and his team was made in April.

"We agreed the time was right to consider the next two years, and the re-appointment reflects our confidence in them," he said.

The 63-year-old Henry, who had stints with Wales and the Lions before taking the All Blacks job in 2004, said there is no job he would rather have.

"It's an honour and a privilege to coach the All Blacks and the other coaches and I are delighted to be re-appointed," he said.

"The coaching staff, management team and players are incredibly proud of their record and we look forward to taking the team through to 2011."