Dunedin - Ben Smith has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and the Otago RFU for another four years.
According to Planet Rugby, the re-signing of the multi-talented Smith until 2017 is a major deal for New Zealand Rugby.
Smith, who has played at wing, fullback or centre, has received high praise from the coaching staff at within the All Blacks setup and was dubbed the "back of the Series" by All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen in their recent Test series whitewash of France.
He scored two tries in the series, looking electric at times whilst being solid in defence.
He has played in every Super Rugby match for the Highlanders this season and will look to add to this in the next four years.
"I have always been proud to wear the Otago, Highlanders and All Blacks jerseys and so I'm delighted to be re-signing with New Zealand Rugby for the next four years," he said.
Smith is delighted to be plying his trade close to home.
"Growing up down the road from my Green Island club in Dunedin, rugby was the game I have always loved and I'm loving it still.
"I look forward to playing my part any way I can over the next few years," said Smith.
Hansen was equally excited about the news and will hope Smith can maintain his form in order to add to his already vast wealth within the All Blacks backline.
"He is an exceptional footballer and a down-to-earth team man.
"He is a true professional, is constantly learning and works incredibly hard on developing his game and it has paid dividends.
"We are delighted for him."
According to Planet Rugby, the re-signing of the multi-talented Smith until 2017 is a major deal for New Zealand Rugby.
Smith, who has played at wing, fullback or centre, has received high praise from the coaching staff at within the All Blacks setup and was dubbed the "back of the Series" by All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen in their recent Test series whitewash of France.
He scored two tries in the series, looking electric at times whilst being solid in defence.
He has played in every Super Rugby match for the Highlanders this season and will look to add to this in the next four years.
"I have always been proud to wear the Otago, Highlanders and All Blacks jerseys and so I'm delighted to be re-signing with New Zealand Rugby for the next four years," he said.
Smith is delighted to be plying his trade close to home.
"Growing up down the road from my Green Island club in Dunedin, rugby was the game I have always loved and I'm loving it still.
"I look forward to playing my part any way I can over the next few years," said Smith.
Hansen was equally excited about the news and will hope Smith can maintain his form in order to add to his already vast wealth within the All Blacks backline.
"He is an exceptional footballer and a down-to-earth team man.
"He is a true professional, is constantly learning and works incredibly hard on developing his game and it has paid dividends.
"We are delighted for him."