The Southern Steel will advertise for a coach this week.
Robyn Broughton's contract has expired and she may have coached her final game.
Southern TeamCo chairwoman Janet Copeland said the decision to advertise the role was made with the future of the franchise in mind.
"The world of professional sport is no different to the corporate world, and succession planning is a vital component of that," she said.
The board had a policy of reviewing the coaching position each year but this was the first time it wanted to see which other coaches were keen to be involved.
That will inevitably be seen as a slight on Broughton, the successful and widely respected coach, but Copeland praised Broughton's efforts.
"Robyn's accomplishments as a coach are undeniable and the Southern TeamCo board unreservedly acknowledges her achievements," Copeland said.
Copeland said the board had identified the importance of succession planning. A perceived lack of coaches coming through the ranks in New Zealand was also highlighted.
Candidates to replace Broughton, if she is squeezed out, would appear to be New Zealand Under-21 coach Janine Southby, Steel assistant Jo Cunningham and former Australian international Natalie Avellino.
