Black Caps captain Kane Williamson, appointed to the job on Mike Hesson's watch, said Hesson "exemplified the 'team-first' attitude and left no stone unturned".
"I've witnessed his work ethic first hand and have seen the sacrifices he's made and can only say I have the utmost respect for what he's achieved."
Former skipper Brendon McCullum put it simply: "I regard him as the best coach the Black Caps have ever had".
McCullum was controversially appointed by Hesson, replacing Ross Taylor early in the coach's tenure in 2012 — a move which ended up paying dividends. McCullum believes Hesson will be a man in demand.
"You'd imagine he'll have a few offers to sift through."
