Otago and All Blacks first five-eighth Nick Evans is returning home to Auckland so he can spend more time with his family.
But he hasn't committed to any provincial rugby union yet.
If he makes the World Cup squad, he will not play provincial rugby this season.
Ifhe misses out, he will represent Otago.
Evans, who has played for Otago since 2005 and the Highlanders since 2004, said his move was motivated entirely by family reasons and should not be seen as a reflection on Otago rugby.
"I have had an amazing time in Dunedin," he said.
"I will be forever grateful to Otago for the opportunities they have given me.
"Playing for Otago and the Highlanders has meant a lot to me and I would love to come back and play in Dunedin again if the opportunity presented itself."
Evans' parents live on the North Shore and while he played for North Harbour before moving south, he is not committed to any union next year.
Otago chief executive Russell Gray said Evans was a player of immense talent and would be missed but they respected his reasons for moving.
"It's often forgotten in professional rugby that the players are young men and their job forces them into long absences from their families," Gray said.
"Nick's desire to be closer to his family is entirely understood. He knows he will be welcome back here any time."
The Highlanders finished last of the New Zealand franchises in this year's Super 14.
Among the Otago players they will be losing next year are All Blacks Anton Oliver and Carl Hayman and this year's captain Josh Blackie.
