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Hosea Gear says the poor performance of the Highlanders this year had no bearing on his decision to head to France.
Gear (29) announced yesterday he had signed a contract with French club Toulouse and would leave New Zealand at the end of the Super 15.
He said financial security and the opportunity to spend more time with his family were reasons for his decision to head offshore.
''It was probably the toughest decision I have had to make throughout my career,'' Gear said.
''Obviously, my family is a big part of that. It is a chance to gain some financial security for them. I suppose the inconsistencies of being in and out of the All Blacks have played a small part.
''The time away from the family is really, really tough, the way the competition and everything is structured these days.''
Gear has three children, Kaliyah (7) and twins Kaden-Ray and Micah (20 months), with fiancee Kate.
He has signed a two-year deal with the French club, where former All Black back Luke McAllister is also playing, but the deal has been set up so he can be released after one year.
Gear played 14 tests for the All Blacks after making his debut in 2008. He has been in and out of the side over the past few years, never cementing his spot.
In 2010 he had a top year, being the standout player for New Zealand Maori, and went back into the All Blacks.
He was left out of the initial World Cup squad the following year but was called up as an injury replacement, although he did not play a game.
Gear had spoken to All Black coach Steve Hansen before making the decision to move but they did not discuss whether he would make the All Black squad due to be named tomorrow.
The winger almost accepted an offer to play in Japan with Toshiba last year. He pulled out at the last minute, but the Toulouse offer was too good to turn down.
''I only just made the decision pretty much last night. The offer has not been on the table for a long time.''
He did not rule out a return to New Zealand after just one year, eyeing the World Cup, but for now, Toulouse beckoned.
''Being in and out of the All Blacks has been frustrating, not just mentally but emotionally as well. It will be good to get out and refresh a bit and get the body right.''
The Highlanders have just one win from 12 games but Gear felt he had played well in the South, and would look back proudly on his time as a Highlander, including this season.
''We have really enjoyed our time down here. I have played some of most enjoyable footy down here. The fans and all that have been great.''
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph said Gear was a big loss to the team.
Centre Tamati Ellison is off to Japan at the end of the season. Asked whether the Highlanders side was breaking up, Joseph said it was too soon to say. Contracting happened in September and October. Top players were more likely to base their decision to head overseas on whether they made the All Blacks or not, rather than their Super 15 allegiance.