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Jamie Joseph
Wellington Lions coach Jamie Joseph has been selected to take the helm of the New Zealand Maori in the team's landmark Centenary year.
Joseph, who was assistant coach of the team in 2006 and Wellington head coach since 2008 will be assisted by Crusaders assistant coach Daryl Gibson.
The 40-year-old played 20 Tests for the All Blacks between 1992 and '95 and 10 matches for New Zealand Maori from 1991 to '94.
NZMRB Chairman Wayne Peters says Joseph and Gibson are "outstanding candidates".
"As former New Zealand Maori players, they both have an intimate knowledge of the team's unique culture, values and expectations".
Joseph says he's, "thrilled" by the challenge of coaching the team in such a milestone year.
"It's a real honour to again be involved in coaching the New Zealand Maori team."
Daryl Gibson played 12 matches for New Zealand Maori from 1996 through to 2001, winning Maori player of the year in 2000. He played 19 Tests for the All Blacks from 1999 to 2002.
The coaching appointments were made by a selection panel made up of NZMRB Chairman Wayne Peters, NZRU Board Member Graham Mourie and Brent Anderson, the NZRU General Manager of Provincial Union Relationships and Community Rugby.
The New Zealand Maori team will be announced at the end of the Super 14 in May.
