The Highlanders chairman Ross Laidlaw says he's unaware of former All Black Jamie Joseph being offered the vacant coaching role.
Radio New Zealand Sport has been told that the job is Joseph's if he wants it, but he must let the New Zealand rugby union know by Friday.
Applications for the job close tomorrow evening and Laidlaw says a panel will convene next week to discuss the applicants.
Joseph, who played 20 tests for the All Blacks, would be a popular choice with strong links to the region have played for the province from 1989-95.
He's coached Wellington for the past two years and recently coached the New Zealand Maori side to wins over England and Ireland.
There's been much speculation about who might get the job with All Blacks assistant coach Steve Hansen also touted as a contender.
