All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith has signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby that will keep him in the country until 2023.
The 32-year-old Smith, who played his 151st game for the Highlanders on the weekend and is the most capped All Black halfback of all time (97 Tests), said his decision to re-sign with NZ Rugby was based on several factors.
"I guess I have to adapt and work a little harder than I did back in 2011, but one thing that hasn't changed is my love for the Highlanders, the All Blacks and Manawatū," Smith said.
"The decision to stay is based on a number of things, but I'm very keen to see the Highlanders do well, we have a good environment here and some great, young players, so I think the next few years will be exciting for us and it'll be great to be part of it.
"Dunedin has been good to me. My wife Teagan and I have a home and a business here and our son Luka was born here. I felt that committing to the Highlanders for another few years in some small way says thanks for all the support we have enjoyed over the years."