Batch (pictured above) has been in charge of Belgium's side for the last two years, and also been an assistant coach for Australia during two bronze medal performances at the Olympics.

He takes over from Shane McLeod, whose team finished fifth in their preliminary group at the London 2012 Olympics.

By contrast Batch led Belgium to a fifth place finish in the same group, as they overcame more illustrious opponents including eight-time champions India.

Batch believes New Zealand should be aiming to emulate the 1976 team that won gold at the Toronto Olympics.

"It might take four years, it might take eight years, it might take 16 years, but you have to have that ambition," he said.

Begium's men's hockey team wave to supporters as they celebrate after their win over India during the London 2012 Olympic Games

"To do that, we have to become a regular top-four team.

"That would be the goal over the next four years."

Both of New Zealand's hockey teams are now coached by Australians, with Mark Hager in charge of the women, who finished fourth in London.

Batch will be looking forward to taking his team to Australia this December for their first major test when they compete in the Champions Trophy.

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