Chiefs midfielder Richard Kahui is leaving New Zealand behind and heading to Japan to play rugby.

The former All Black will head to Japan to play for the Toshiba Club for two seasons after the 2013 Investec Super Rugby competition with his current Chiefs team.

Richard Kahui is going to Japan. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

'I love being a Chief, but it is no secret that I have had my fair share of injuries which have forced me to make some very hard decisions about my future and make the most of the opportunities while I can.”

Chiefs' coach Dave Rennie says Kahui has been an outstanding member of the Chiefs family, having played more than 50 games.

'I have been really impressed with him as a man, as a player and as a leader within our group.

'He has an opportunity to set himself up for his future and we are fully supportive of what he is doing and hope to get him back for 2015.”

Kahui has played 17 tests for the All Blacks since making his debut in 2008 and has scored 10 tries.

The Chiefs head to Mangatainoka to play the Hurricanes on Saturday in their last pre-season fixture ahead of their first round of Investec Super Rugby against the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin on Friday, February 22.