New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney has been handed a two-year contract extension.

The 42-year-old's new deal will see him take charge of the Kiwis into 2017, leading them into the World Cup that year.

"After the disappointing end to the 2013 World Cup, I think we recognised the need to rebuild the Kiwis culture," said New Zealand Rugby League chief executive Phil Holden in a statement.

"We were pretty confident that Stephen was still the right man for that job, but needed to put the right structures around him to help him succeed.

"Winning the Four Nations showed that we are on the right track and it's appropriate that we give Stephen some job security, so he can build towards the next World Cup."

Kearney, who was appointed New Zealand boss in 2008, will become the national team's longest-serving coach when he leads them into the Anzac Test in Brisbane on May 1.