The New Zealand Rugby Union have named World Cup-winning assistant coach Steve Hansen as the new head coach of the All Blacks.

Hansen, who has served as assistant coach for eight years, was widely tipped to win a promotion following the resignation of Graham Henry after this year's Rugby World Cup.

"From a coaching point of view - in this sport it's the greatest honour you can receive. It comes with a huge amount of responsibility," Hansen said.

"You look at the Rugby World Cup history and teams have struggled slightly afterwards, but that makes the challenge even more exciting.

"We've got to put a full stop on what we've achieved, and it's a magnificent thing what we have achieved, but this is a new team, a new group of people and we have to make our own history."

The 52-year-old has agreed a two-year deal with the union, and his coaching staff will be named next week.

"I have huge pride in New Zealand rugby and I'm passionate about the All Blacks and New Zealand," Hansen added.

"I feel humbled and proud to be given the opportunity to lead the team into its next phase. My aim will be to leave the team in a better shape than how I found it and to enhance its legacy."

NZRU chairman Mike Eagle said: "I want to congratulate him on his appointment. He is an outstanding coach and has been a key part of a hugely successful All Blacks team since becoming an assistant coach in 2004.

"He has huge respect and backing from the team and his peers and is the right man to now lead the team."

Since his appointment to the All Blacks coaching staff, Hansen has helped the team to 88 wins in 103 Tests.