Kieran Read has been appointed the new captain of New Zealand.

The 30-year-old has taken on the responsibility following the retirement of Richie McCaw at the conclusion of last year's victorious World Cup campaign.

"Reado's had experience already as captain nine times and while it will be a new experience to be there full time, at least he's had a taste of it," head coach Steve Hansen told Radio Sport.

Since making his debut for the All Blacks in 2008, Read has gone on to earn 84 senior international caps.

During that time, the Crusaders number eight has run in 20 tries.