The 32-year-old Blackburn Rovers central defender was one of the All Whites' key figures in South Africa, helping New Zealand surprisingly claim three draws from their three matches.

The Christchurch-born veteran, though, says he needs to mull over his future with the All Whites.

"I don't want to make any rash decisions because I will be a long time retired," Nelsen told FIFA.com. "I needed a bit of time to think through what I am going to do.

"I am not getting any younger but I love playing for New Zealand and the whole World Cup experience has left such a positive impact.

"New Zealand has got a lot of really good, promising young players coming through and it is quite fun, as an older player, helping these guys to progress."

Nelsen admits he'll look back on his experiences at the 2010 World Cup with fondness, but wants this generation of New Zealand footballers to build on their performances in South Africa.

"It was obviously an amazing experience," he said.

"During it you don't really enjoy it because it is pressure. It is intense and everybody is watching. Afterwards when you sit back and think about it, it is something that will live long in the memory.

"But in all honesty, I hope people aren't talking about it forever.

"We have got some excellent young players and I hope in four years time we better it.

"That is the goal. That is the standard this team has set. It is a really high standard. Now it has to be bettered."