New Zealand halfback TJ Perenara has joined NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes, the Japanese Top League side said Monday.

The 28-year-old, who has been capped 66 times by the All Blacks, joins the side from the Hurricanes in New Zealand on a one-year contract.

TJ Perenara of New Zealand runs with the ball on his way to scoring a try during the second half of a Rugby World Cup Pool B match against Namibia on Oct. 6, 2019, in Chofu, western Tokyo. (Kyodo)

"I am really excited to be heading to Japan with my family. We are keen to take this opportunity to experience a new culture and challenge ourselves to get out of our comfort zone," Perenara said through his new team.

"I have really admired the Japanese style of rugby over the last few years and am looking forward to contributing to NTT Docomo's success moving forward."

The Red Hurricanes, who are coached by South African Johan Ackermann, recently signed Rugby World Cup winner Makazole Mapimpi to a similar one-year deal that will see both players return to Super Rugby once their stint in Japan is over.