The in-form Chiefs winger James Lowe will leave New Zealand rugby at the end of the year to play in Ireland.
The Chiefs' James Lowe in action. Photo: Photosport
Lowe, who has scored three tries in the opening two rounds of Super Rugby, has signed to play for Leinster for the next three years.
The 24 year old Maori All Black said the decision hadn't been an easy one.
"For as long as I can remember I have wanted to be an All Black, but at this stage of my life and for my future, I feel this is the best decision for me. Leinster are a very competitive side and I am looking forward to challenging myself in another professional environment."
Lowe will leave after his domestic Mitre 10 Cup campaign with Tasman.
"I am not ruling out returning to NZ rugby. At 24 I feel my best years are still to come. But for this stage of my life and with an eye to the future, I have to set myself and my future family up so they can have every opportunity in life to succeed" said Lowe.
Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie said: "James has made a massive contribution to the Chiefs over the past four seasons."
James Lowe made his Investec Super Rugby debut for the Gallagher Chiefs against the Crusaders in 2014.
Leinster signed Australian forward Scott Fardy last week.
Hayden Triggs, Isa Nacewa and Jamison Gibson-Park currently play for Leinster.
-RNZ
