Weepu hangs up his boots

Former All Black halfback Piri Weepu has announced his retirement from all forms of rugby.

The 71 test veteran has announced his decision on Instagram saying "it's been an honour and a privilege to have played footy over the years."

Weepu made his provincial debut in 2003 for Wellington, playing with the Lions until 2011 when he switched to Auckland from 2012-2014.

The 34 year-old made 124 Super Rugby appearances - 84 for the Hurricanes and 40 for the Blues.

His All Black career included playing a leading role in New Zealand's World Cup triumph in Auckland in 2011.

Weepu headed overseas in 2014 to play for London Welsh, Wasps and French clubs Oyonnax and Narbonne.

He recently returned to New Zealand to play Heartland Championship rugby this season for Wairarapa Bush.