New Zealand Rugby has confirmed that Allan Bunting has stepped down as director of rugby following the Black Ferns’ semi-final exit at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
The governing body said it will begin the process of appointing a new head coach after completing a full review of the Black Ferns programme. Bunting, who led the set-up since 2023, will not be applying for the role.
New Zealand, winners of six of the previous seven World Cups, were beaten by Canada in the semi-finals in England before claiming third place with victory over France. Hosts England later defeated Canada to secure the title.
Bunting said it had been an “absolute honour” to guide the national side. The former Sevens and Fifteens coach reflected on more than a decade of involvement across major tournaments including the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, World Series and World Cups.
“To have been part of the growth of the women’s game over these 14 years has been a privilege,” he said.
Chris Lendrum, New Zealand Rugby’s general manager of professional rugby and performance, praised Bunting’s contribution, saying his impact on the women’s game had been “immense”. He added that the coaching group had laid “a strong foundation” for the next World Cup cycle as the team targets a record seventh title.
New Zealand Rugby aims to have a new head coach in place by Christmas. Lendrum said the next four-year period will be especially significant, with an expanded women’s competition calendar and the first Women’s British and Irish Lions tour scheduled for 2027.
He added that finding the right leader to take the Black Ferns forward is crucial as the programme enters a new phase.
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