McLean, who is a former head coach of the Canterbury provincial side and an assistant at the Crusaders, this year completed his third season as Hurricanes assistant to Colin Cooper.
He was unsuccessful in his bid this month for the vacant Crusaders head coach role.
"I've had a lot of experience as a head coach and when you've had three years as an assistant, you start to feel that it's time to look for new opportunities," McLean said in a statement.
"To make a comparison with the Crusaders, Robbie Deans had four different assistants during his time in charge and it will be good for Colin Cooper to bring in some new ideas next year."
Hurricanes chairman Paul Collins thanked McLean for his contribution to the franchise.
"He has played a major role in helping us reach our first ever final in 2006 and securing a semifinal appearance in 2008. We will always be very grateful for that and wish him well for the future."
