On the move.

All Blacks utility back Jordie Barrett has opened up on his decision to join Leinster in the United Rugby Championship next season.

The Hurricanes star has committed his long-term future to New Zealand and the All Blacks but has taken up his option of a sabbatical for six months.

Many of his All Blacks teammates have opted to use their sabbaticals to take up lucrative offers in Japan, but Barrett has instead opted for a different route that he feels will make him a better player.

Speaking to NewstalkZB, Barrett admitted that money is important when making such a decision but there was more to his move to the Irish province.

“[Money] is certainly a serious component,” Barrett said.

“For different individuals, that can be at the top of the tree or somewhere a little further down.

“I put my development and my experiences, and my thinking of coming back and trying to be a better rugby player and a better All Black and a better Hurricane, right at the top of that tree. That took priority over all the other options I had.

“My eyes were only ever heading towards Japan and having a wee stint there.

“But Leinster put an offer forward, and basically just the prestige of their club and what they’ve done in the past and the direction they’re heading in the future really stuck out and excited me.”