The Kiwis have been on the hunt for a new coach following David Kidwell's departure after the disastrous 2017 World Cup campaign.

New Zealand was beaten by both Tonga and Fiji, and was knocked out in the quarter-finals.

Maguire's appointment is expected to be confirmed tomorrow.

Kiwi hooker Isaac Luke has thrown his support for the 44-year-old getting the job.

Luke played under Maguire at Souths.

"I still text him from time to time, he's been a big part my development over the past six or so years," Luke rold NRL.com.

"In 2012 he came over to the club and in 2011 when I got suspended from the Four Nations he rang me and gave it to me about that, I had never even met him. So as a coach, he's tough and if he gets the nod I know he'll bring a different, more ruthless attitude to the job.

"In his time at Souths he definitely brought the best out of myself and guys like Greg Inglis as well. If I get the chance [to play for NZ again] I'll grab it with both hands. Personally, I'd love to see him (Maguire) there."