Umaga makes the break

Tana Umaga with Graham Henry, who said the decision was a reflection of the captain's strength and development as a person. Picture / Reuters

Family comes first for retiring All Black captain Tana Umaga, who yesterday stepped down after nine seasons in the black jersey.

The 32-year-old announced his retirement from international rugby in Wellington with glowing words of praise from coach Graham Henry ringing in his ears.

"This is one of the great All Blacks, who is retiring from the game," Henry said.

"He was very brave, led from the front, fine defender, huge determination to win. He's going to be one of the great All Black captains now ... has been one of the great All Black captains."

Umaga's decision was a reflection of his strength and development as a person, "and I think he's got his priorities right", Henry said.

Umaga's retirement from international rugby was revealed by the Weekend Herald last November just before what would turn out to be his final test against Scotland in Edinburgh.

Umaga, who played 74 tests for the All Blacks, 21 of them as captain, said he was retiring to spend more time with his family.

"I just believe that I sacrificed a lot of time with my family to wear the black jersey, and I did that willingly and I always wanted to do it.

"But now I believe it's time for me to actually sacrifice something and give back to my family, so that is the major reason why I'm doing this.

"I still plan to play for the Hurricanes, if picked, and also the Wellington Lions."

His highlight with the All Blacks was "just playing for them really" and there had been no low points.

"Every test was a privilege and a bonus for me. The first one will always be the most special."

Henry said the All Black selectors were sad Umaga had retired, but "he's been superb in the development of this rugby team; quite outstanding in fact. This team has developed significantly as people, and he's had a lot to do with that".

Umaga denied he intended heading for English clubs Harlequins and Leicester.

"I have been to most of the countries that play rugby, and to be honest none of them really suit my way of life."