Graham Henry to assist New Zealand Warriors after code switch

World Cup winning former All Blacks coach Graham Henry has confirmed on Tuesday that he will be switching codes and will join the National Rugby League.

Henry will join as a mentor for the Auckland based New Zealand Warriors and will be working along the head coach Andrew McFadden next month.

The 69-year-old coached the All Blacks team between 2004 and 2011 and during this period, Henry guided New Zealand to series victory over the tour British and Irish Lions in 2005, five Tri Nations victory, three Grand Slams and a World Cup triumph in 2011.

In 2012-13, Henry joined the Argentina backroom coaching staff and took up the role of assistant coach.

In the current season, Warriors are struggling at 10th place with four wins and five defeats from the nine games.

Henry, who arrived at the club on Monday said he is excited to work with McFadden.

"I've had an association with Cappy on a social level for quite a while now," said Henry.

"I've got a lot of time for him as a coach and I also really enjoy his company.

"We've had some healthy discussions about coaching previously and I'm thrilled to have the chance to be able to work with him, to observe the organisation and to provide some feedback."

McFadden, who is contracted with the Warriors until 2017 has a win percent of 44 in the 52 games during his tenure as coach to date.

The 38-year-old also revealed the decision to have a mentor for the team has been discussed quite a while and Henry's services will add a lot of value to the squad considering his vast experience.

"I've always been open to the idea of having extra support to help me to develop and improve," McFadden told the club's website.

"Jim and I have considered a number of options but it was important to take time to find the person who best fitted the position and was available to help.

"In the end we were really fortunate to be able to secure Sir Graham's services.

“It's a real privilege to have him involved and I know it's going to be hugely beneficial not only for me personally but for the squad as a whole."