Born in Putaruru in the Waikato, Ian’s rugby career has been long and distinguished.

He represented Waikato playing 148 games from 1985 to 1998, and played 26 games for the Chiefs from 1996 to 1998.

In 1999, Ian was named the Waikato Rugby Sportsperson of the Year and he took up the role of assistant coach for Waikato. In subsequent years, he has coached the Junior All Blacks, the Chiefs and Waikato.

In December 2011, he was named the new assistant coach of the All Blacks.