Graham Henry says he wants to remain All Blacks coach through to the 2011 World Cup.

The 62-year-old ended speculation about his future, with many under the impression Henry would hand the reigns to assistant coach Steve Hansen when his two-year contract expires at the end of this year.

Instead, he wants to be considered for the role beyond 2009, continuing a tenure which began in 2004 and included the failed World Cup campaign of 2007.

His post-World Cup reappointment ahead of then-Crusaders mentor Robbie Deans - now Wallabies coach - sparked nationwide debate across the Tasman but Henry silenced many doubters as the All Blacks won 13 of 15 Tests last year.

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) are sure to retain the veteran coach if he enjoys similar success this year.

"I'd like to continue, but that's other people's (NZRU) decisions. Let's wait and see, I guess," Henry said.

"I'm sure (the NZRU) has given it some thought, but it's early days, isn't it? I guess those things take a wee bit of time to get through the system."

Henry has been coach in a world record 102 Tests - comprising 63 for the All Blacks, 36 for Wales and three for the British and Irish Lions.

If he coached to the end of 2011, he would almost certainly oversee the 37 more Tests needed to reach two notable milestones.

He would bring up 100 Tests in charge of the All Blacks and would match the world record number of games for a player - the 139 played by former Wallabies halfback George Gregan.

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