Rugby: Tuitavake signs with Japanese club

North Harbour captain Anthony Tuitavake will play in next year’s Super 14 before moving to Japan. Photo / Getty Images

Former All Black Anthony Tuitavake will leave New Zealand rugby after next year's Super 14 to play in Japan.

The North Harbour Rugby Union (NHRU) announced today the midfield back had signed a two-year contract with the NEC club.

Tuitavake made his All Black debut on the wing in June 2008 against Ireland. He played five tests, scoring a try.

He played 54 Super rugby matches - 44 for the Blues and 10 for the Highlanders - scoring 13 tries.

Tuitavake is also a former New Zealand Sevens representative, winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2002 in Manchester and a world title the following year.

"Anthony has always been a leader for our team on the field and off," NHRU chief executive Brett Hollister said.

"His attitude to all aspects of the game and his role within it is always exemplary."

New Zealanders who have played for NEC - the Green Rockets - include John Kirwan, now coach of Japan, Glen Marsh and George Konia.

- NZPA