Dave Rennie has announced his All Blacks coaching group, including Scotsman Mike Blair as attack coach.
Rennie’s Coaching Appointments
Rennie retained Jason Ryan as forwards coach from Scott Robertson’s coaching team. Neil Barnes joins as senior assistant coach, Tana Umaga as defence coach, and Mike Blair as attack coach.
Umaga, a former All Blacks captain, played under Rennie in Wellington when they won the NPC title in 2000. He has also had coaching stints with Counties Manukau, the Blues and Samoa and coached All Blacks vice-captain Ardie Savea at Moana Pasifika last season.
Barnes coached alongside Rennie at the Chiefs and has international experience with Canada and Italy. He recently re-signed with Taranaki for the 2026 season after an unbeaten season in 2021 and a second title in 2023.
Blair’s Background and Role
Blair is Scotland’s most-capped halfback. He moved into assistant coaching roles with Glasgow, Scotland, and Kobe before leading Edinburgh.
Currently, Blair is coaching with Rennie at Kobe and will complete the current Japan Rugby League One season before moving to New Zealand, pending a work visa.
Phil Healey has been appointed as head of performance, replacing Nic Gill. Healey previously worked with Rennie at the Glasgow Warriors and with the Georgia national team for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Scott Hansen is replaced by Blair. Tamati Ellison exits and has been moved into head coach of the Māori All Blacks for their games in June against Japan.
Rennie’s Statement
“This is a very experienced and highly skilled coaching team,” Rennie said. “Each of these men has a track record of getting the best out of the players and teams they coach, and they are each hugely motivated to get stuck in and deliver the same success with the All Blacks.
- Neil provides outstanding leadership and strategic support.
- Jase has proven himself as one of the best forwards coaches in the game.
- Tana brings immense mana and defensive insight.
- Mike will bring his innovative approach and attention to detail to our attack.
“I know this group will challenge and support both me and our players to bring the best out of us all.
“This has been a thorough appointment process that included conversations with each of the former All Blacks assistant coaches. I want to acknowledge those men who have all contributed so positively and professionally to this process and to the legacy of the All Blacks.
He added that they are each hugely motivated to get stuck in and deliver the same success with the All Blacks.