"I am excited by the new challenge that awaits me in playing for the Ospreys and playing in Europe,” said Holah.

“The Ospreys have put together a very formidable side over the last few years, and to win the Magners League twice in three years speaks for itself. I was also impressed during my conversations with Mike Cuddy and Lyn Jones at the ambition that the club has, particularly to win the Heineken Cup.

“Having come from a region like Waikato where we have had some good success recently, but are still looking to get better, that was an important factor in making my decision. I am looking forward to joining the team for the first round of the Heineken Cup and settling in to life in Wales."

Hamilton born Holah has won thirty-six All Blacks caps, is 30 years old, stands at 1.84m and weighs 101kgs. The openside flanker was the most-capped Chief in the 2007 squad with 81 caps, and is renowned as a hard tackling, high work-rate defender who will bring a wealth of experience to the Ospreys back row.

Holah has most recently captained a successful Junior All Blacks (New Zealand A) side which won the Pacific Nations Rugby Cup.

“While it is sad for me to leave Waikato and the Chiefs, it is the right time in my rugby career to make such a move. Playing overseas presents me with a new challenge – it is one that I’m looking forward to, “said Holah.

“Playing rugby for Waikato, the Chiefs and the All Blacks over the years has been extremely satisfying and presented me with some great opportunities and memories. I am now keen to enjoy the remainder of the Waikato season and look forward to the challenges ahead for our team in the Air New Zealand Cup.”

Waikato Rugby Union and Chiefs franchise Chief Executive Gary Dawson said Holah is the “consummate professional” both on and off the field.

“Marty always conducts himself in a professional manner. It is sad to see Marty leave us but he goes with our best wishes. He is a humble person and epitomises what is great about Waikato and Chiefs rugby.

“Marty will be missed by our supporters, our organisation and his teammates. In the meantime, supporters will still get to enjoy our determined number 7 at work for Waikato in the remainder of the Air New Zealand Cup competition.”

Ospreys Director of Rugby, Kevin Hopkins said, "We are delighted to be able to confirm the signing of Marty Holah. He is a top quality international player and his signing signals another important step towards our aim to be a far more competitive team in European Rugby.

"Marty will bring a wealth of experience to our squad ahead of what is already an eagerly anticipated season. We are making great progress in finalising our squad for the upcoming season, and this is another key piece of the jigsaw."