Brian McClennan has been named as the new coach of New Zealand, taking over from Daniel Anderson, now at St Helens. The other front-runner for the post, former New Zealand centre James Leuluai withdrew his application.
McClennan, who was previously Anderson's assistant, has been signed to an initial one-year contract.
His position will be reviewed after the Tri-Nations series featuring New Zealand, Australia and Great Britain which begins in October.
McClennan insisted his lack of top-level experience - he has neither coached nor played in the NRL - would not be an impediment to success in the New Zealand role.
"I'm confident in my own ability," said McClennan.
"I can see where that could be a concern for the public and possibly a handful of players.
"But it's up to me to get the trust of the players and I'm sure that will happen."
The 43-year-old, whose first match in charge will be the opening Tri-Nations Test against Australia in October, is the son of former Kiwis and St Helens full-back Mike McClennan.
Sel Bennett, who headed the New Zealand Rugby League selection panel, said the decision was made easier following Leuluai's withdrawal.
"We were looking for a New Zealand coach and we've found one," said Bennett.
"We're confident he will carry off the Tri-Nations series and we will go ahead from there."
The other short-listed candidates were former Test lock Tawera Nikau and Auckland Rugby League coaching and development manager Stan Martin.
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