New Zealand Rugby have announced the re-signing of Beauden Barrett, the All Blacks and Hurricanes securing his services through until 2019.
"It's been a no brainer for me," said Barrett. "It was clear in my mind right from the start."
The 25-year-old pivot has taken his game to another level this season, leading the Hurricanes to their maiden Super Rugby title before playing a key hand in the All Blacks 14th consecutive defence of the Bledisloe Cup.
"I love playing for the All Blacks and representing my country in the black jersey.
"As well, with the Hurricanes, we've built a great culture at the club and it's an exciting time to be involved with a great bunch of guys."
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All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said Barrett's recent form had been nothing short of spectacular.
He was quickly becoming one of the standout players in world rugby.
"He's been a world-class player coming off the bench for some time, (and) he's now graduated into starting Test matches for us," Hansen said.
"It's nice to have him signed up and secure."
Barrett was quick to dispel any suggestion he had been entertaining the idea of taking his talents to north to the Blues.
"It was never an option. So I'm sorry, for the fans' sake, I couldn't make it clearer earlier.
"I'm stoked I've signed the deal and am remaining with the Canes."
Once considered by the All Blacks brass as an impact player to be used off the bench, Barrett's form through Super Rugby made him impossible to ignore, seeing him usurp incumbent Aaron Cruden as the side's starting first-five.
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Barrett was named man of the match in the All Blacks 45-9 demolition of the Wallabies in Sydney, then played another starring hand when the Bledisloe Cup was locked away for yet another year this past weekend.
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