A boost for elite women's rugby in New Zealand with a 3-year programme for the world champion Black Ferns against England.
The multi-year programme agreed will guarantee the Black Ferns play a total nine Test matches against England over the next three years.
The new era commences in November this year with the Black Ferns travelling to England for a three-Test series against last year's Women's RWC runners-up.
England hosts the Black Ferns again for a three Test series in 2012, before New Zealand hosts England in 2013 for three matches including Tests against the Black Ferns.
With RWC Black Ferns Coach Brian Evans taking a break from coaching this year, the NZRU has announced the appointment of Assistant Coach Grant Hansen as the Black Ferns Head Coach this year, with Otago Women's NPC coach John Kyle being appointed as his Assistant Coach.
