Twenty-nine-year-old Nepo Laulala has confirmed he will play Super Rugby and represent Blues for the next two years, reports the Gallagher Chiefs website. 

In a statement released by the Gallagher Chiefs which was published on Thursday on their website, Laulala acknowledged the work that the Chiefs have done for him.

"I want to thank the Chiefs for all they have done for me," he said.

Laulala is Samoan-born and was educated at the Mt Albert Grammar and Wesley College. He wanted to be closer to his family in Auckland, with his wife Loriana and son Cassius.

"My wife and I felt the time was right for us to move closer to our families in Auckland. I went to school in Auckland and our extended families are all there,” he said.

“Family is so important to us and even more so for Loriana to have support when I am away," he added.

Michael Collins, who is the Chiefs Rugby CEO, wished Laulala the best in the next step that he is taking in his rugby career.

"Nepo is a quality player and has been a huge contributor to our jersey, club, and the All Blacks. We understand his decision to move closer to his family and wish him all the very best for his move up north," he said.

Laulala will be playing for Counties-Manukau where his brothers Ray and Casey had played while Luteru is in the current Steelers squad for the Mitre 10 Cup.

Laulala made his debut in Investec Super Rugby as a player for Crusaders in 2013. He was then called up to the All Blacks in 2015 and made his debut against Samoa.

He moved to Chiefs in 2016 and made his debut against the Bulls in 2017. Laulala was part of 2019 All Blacks Rugby World Cup squad, and this year he returned from injury for the Investec Rugby Aotearoa tournament. He is also in the 2020 All Blacks squad.