Bristol Rugby have confirmed that New Zealand fly half David Hill will be leaving the club at the end of the season to take up a contract with Japanese club Toshiba.

Hill, who won his only All Black cap against Ireland in 2006, joined Bristol from Super 14 side Waikato Chiefs on November 2006 making his debut against Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park.

He went on to be a regular over the next few months, helping Bristol to a run of hard fought victories, until suffering a broken finger which sidelined him for 10 weeks.

He has also featured in 13 of the club's 15 Guinness Premiership matches in 2007-8 as well as all six of the Heineken Cup pool matches.

However, he is currently sidelined with a neck injury awaiting a decision on whether surgery is required to rectify a disc problem. Should he have the operation, he will already have played his final game for the club.

Hill today explained the thinking behind his decision to leave the club and that he had enjoyed his time at the club:

"I'd actually looked at going to Japan before I signed for Bristol so it's something I've been looking to do for some time. The opportunity arose again, I've got friends playing over there so I figured it's the right time to make the move."

"My partner and I have both really enjoyed our time in Bristol. We've made a lot of friends and will leave with a lot of happy memories."

"I'm pleased that I played a part in helping the club get to the playoff semi finals last season and the wins over Gloucester and Stade Francais will rank as real career highlights for me."

"I'd like to thank everyone at the club, especially the supporters, for making me feel so welcome and wish Bristol Rugby every success in the future."

Head Coach Richard Hill added:
"David has played a significant role for Bristol at both outside half and centre particularly over the past few months."

"However, he has now chosen to further his career in Japan and we wish him well."