"It was a tough year but every experience whether it's good or bad is a lesson for me," he said. "There were some really good lessons out of last year, not only at a club level but also at international level. I feel if I can learn out of all of the occasions, it will make me a better coach in the future.
"I'm very mindful of where I want to take the footy club but also what we are trying to do at international level. That's the continual challenge, to keep working away and not be deterred from what you think will work for your footy club."
His next assignment is the Eels' matchup with the Warriors on Monday night but he's also got one eye on next month's Anzac Test at Eden Park.
New Zealand have not won in the annual match since their 22-16 defeat of Australia in 1998. Significantly, that was at North Harbour Stadium and next month's match is the first at home since then. The NZRL were always happy to give up hosting rights because they could make more money from a game played across the Tasman.
That hasn't helped the players but nor has the limited buildup against an Australian side Kearney says is like "a hand fitting into a glove" because of their familiarity with each of from State of Origin duty.
It might be more of a level playing field this time around, although Eden Park has been an unhappy venue for New Zealand league sides, and Kearney has implemented regular catchups with senior players to help bridge the gap with Australia. He will also pick his best side.
"It will be the strongest side but with an eye on what we think is going to be of benefit for us in 18 months' time [at the World Cup]," Kearney said.
The lack of tests is not a big problem ahead of the World Cup. The players will have two tough seasons of NRL to get them match-ready and the first few games of the tournament will also act as a buildup - New Zealand have been drawn with Papua New Guinea, France and Samoa.