The Old Golds will have an international flavour in their coaching team this season.
North Otago have enlisted experienced Irish coach and former professional player Kieran Hallett as a technical adviser on the staff of new head coach Luke Herden.
It is a homecoming of sorts for the former Ireland under-21 first five, who played a season with the Excelsior club in Oamaru 20 years ago.
Hallett has since been building a formidable coaching career.
He is a key figure in the set-up at powerhouse Irish club Leinster, serving as an elite player development officer.
Hallett has also had roles with Irish Rugby’s elite development pathways, the Ireland women’s team and the Ireland under-19 squad, and spent the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season with the Melbourne Rebels as a backs and skills coach.
His appointment continues North Otago’s link with Irish rugby, following the arrival of new chief executive Sene Naoupu, who represented Ireland and enlisted Wallabies and former Irish coach Joe Schmidt to the panel that appointed Herden.
"I’m delighted to be joining North Otago rugby and supporting the coaching team," Hallett said.
"Having lived in Oamaru and played here in 2005, I was excited when Sene approached me about this opportunity.
"North Otago played a key role in my early career, and the chance to give back to the union is incredibly exciting.
"I look forward to working with the coaching group and helping us achieve success this season."
Naoupu expressed her enthusiasm for Hallett’s appointment.
"I’ve seen first-hand how Kieran’s coaching has an immediate impact, especially in defensive systems," she said.
"His technical knowledge and ability to analyse and refine structures bring real clarity to teams, making processes more effective and strengthening overall performance.
"It’s significant to have him on board, and he’ll be invaluable support for our coaching team and players.
"I’m also grateful for the support of Leinster and Irish Rugby’s CEOs, who recognise the value of global coaching connections. Their backing reflects the true spirit of rugby, supporting performance, developing global coaching capability, sharing knowledge and strengthening communities from grassroots to the professional game."
Hallett’s role with North Otago was structured to support the team without interfering with his commitments to Leinster and Irish Rugby, Naoupu said.
Herden has fellow Old Golds greats Ralph Darling and Kilifi Fangupo as his assistant coaches.
North Otago are also getting "advisory support" from the Highlanders for the Heartland Championship.
