Graham Henry's successor had been expected to be named next week, but the New Zealand Rugby Union said it wanted the new coach in place before Christmas.
Rugby World Cup-winning coach Henry stood down following New Zealand's 8-7 win over France in October's final, and assistant coach Steve Hansen is seen as his logical successor.
Clermont coach Vern Cotter, who worked with Robbie Deans at the Crusaders in 2005 and 2006 as assistant coach, is also a strong contender.
Short-listed candidates for the position were interviewed
by a six-strong selection panel, including NZRU chief executive Steve
Tew, All Blacks manager Darren Shand and high performance manager Don Tricker.