One test All Black Josh Ioane has signed for the Chiefs after being released from his Highlanders contract on Monday.
Ioane, 26, was released from the final year of his deal with the Highlanders to "explore other opportunities."
While there was speculation that Ioane could join Moana Pasifika for their maiden Super Rugby campaign - with his image used as promotional material for the announcement of Super Rugby Pacific on Monday - the versatile playmaker will head north from Dunedin to Hamilton.
Ioane made his debut for the Highlanders in 2018, going on to play 42 games for the side.
His form for the Highlanders in 2019 saw Ioane receive his maiden All Blacks call up by coach Sir Steve Hansen, and made his test debut against Tonga in Hamilton - the same ground that he'll now call home for the Chiefs.
"I've loved my time with the Highlanders and am grateful for everything they've done for me," Ioane says.
"However, I'm excited to link up with the Chiefs whānau, they've built an amazing culture up there from what I've heard and I admire what the Gallagher Chiefs are about.
"Hopefully I am able to add something to that environment"
Ioane's arrival at the Chiefs for the inaugural season of Super Rugby Pacific comes after the news that Damian McKenzie will miss the 2022 campaign for a Japanese sabbatical.
