The All Blacks have their first coach of Pasifika heritage.

Dave Rennie has been given the job, replacing the ousted Scott Robertson.

Rennie’s Cook Islands heritage comes via his mother, who hails from Titikaveka on Rarotonga, and Rennie even played a non-test match for the country in 1990.

• READ MORE: Other Pasifika rugby reports

Asked about his heritage in his first press conference as All Blacks head coach, he paid tribute to his mother’s legacy.

“She was hardworking, inspirational and . . . she had a massive impact on me and my brothers and sisters. I know she’d be really proud,” Rennie said.

“I’m honoured to represent the Cook Islands.”

Congratulations have come in from near and far, with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, calling Rennie’s appointment a powerful moment for young Cook Islanders.

“As a son of Takitumu he carries our Cook Islands heritage with him,” Brown wrote on social media.

‘Powerful moment’
“As patron of the Cook Islands Rugby Union, I know how powerful this moment is for our young players. When they see one of our own standing at the helm of the All Blacks they see what is possible.”

Wellington Samoa Rugby Union president Leiataualesa Ken Ah Kuoi said it was time a Pacific person was recognised at the very top level.

Leiataualesa said as a Pacific person in the Aotearoa rugby space he was very proud.

“Of course it will have an impact, a huge impact, to players [and] administrators of rugby,” he said.

“We talk about diversity in rugby in New Zealand and this is a clear message that a Pacific person can do the job.”

Dave Rennie will take up the role in June, with his first assignment in July when the All Blacks host France, Italy and Ireland for three tests in New Zealand.

‘Fair bit of diversity’
When asked in Wednesday’s press conference if his connection with Pasifika players was an important part of what he did, Rennie said having a connection with all the players is important.

“We’ve got a fair bit of diversity within the group and I think the ability to celebrate that is important.”

The 62-year-old former Chiefs coach and coach of the Wallabies said he’s “really clear” on how he wants the team to play.

“We have a lot of talent here,” he said.

“Coaching the All Blacks is an incredible honour. I’m extremely proud to have been entrusted with this role and understand the expectations that come with it.”

This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

There has been mixed reaction in parts of New Zealand’s red-and-black country — Canterbury — following the shock axing of All Blacks coach Scott Robertson.

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) confirmed today the 51-year-old known as “Razor” had departed the position two years early following a recent end-of-season review.

A process would commence immediately to find Robertson’s replacement, NZR said.

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The New Zealand Herald reported a “scathing” post-season review outlined dissatisfaction among senior players around the All Blacks coaching, culture and environment.

At a press conference today, NZR chair David Kirk said the “trajectory” of the All Blacks was not on track.

“The All Blacks are not on track the way they need to be on track for the 2027 World Cup,” he said.

In a statement, Robertson said coaching the All Blacks had been an honour and that he was “gutted by the outcome”.

‘Incredibly proud’
“I am incredibly proud of what this team has achieved and of the progress we have made. We have brought through a talented group of young players, strengthened the depth across the squad, and set solid foundations for the years ahead,” he said.

Robertson took over as head coach of the national team in 2024, with his appointment confirmed a year earlier, despite his predecessor Ian Foster still at the helm.

His elevation to the coaching position was a largely popular one, particularly in Canterbury, where he led the Crusaders to seven Super Rugby championships.

There was a range of feeling on the streets of central Christchurch, following news of Robertson’s departure.

A Rolleston woman told RNZ she felt the move was hasty, laying blame with how the governing body was run.

“Bureaucracy, the hierarchy and the juxtaposition of people in the rugby union really appals me,” she said.

“I think he should’ve been given another chance.”

Views from patrons
RNZ spoke to a couple of patrons at central city sports bar The Loft.

One man said the news had come as a surprise.

“The words we’re seeing from [senior players], maybe it’s warranted. It’s very unlike the All Blacks to do such an act,” he said.

“Maybe the time is right, to bring someone else in.”

He endorsed a move to replace Robertson with Highlanders and former Japan coach Jamie Joseph.

A fellow patron also hoped Joseph would be appointed.

“I think in the modern age you do have to listen to the experienced members of a team,” he said.

‘I like his dancing’
“I think it’s fair to be able to take the feedback that’s come over the last six months from some of the key members of the squad. If it means that Razor and [others] lose their jobs for the good of New Zealand Rugby then I think it’s fair.”

Another woman was shocked by the announcement.

“I feel a little sorry for him. I thought he was doing all right. And I like his dancing,” she said.

“Give him a chance.”

The All Blacks won 10 of 14 tests during Robertson’s first year in charge.

Last year the team clinched 10 wins from their 13-test programme for a 74 percent winning ratio — higher than his predecessor Ian Foster.

The season was ultimately marred by three stinging defeats, including a historic test loss in Argentina, a record-breaking 43-10 hammering at the hands of the Springboks, and defeat to England at Twickenham on the end of year tour.

This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.