Prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi has joined a select group of All Blacks to commit to New Zealand rugby until the end of 2021.

The Blues front-rower, regarded as one of the country’s premier tightheads, added three years to his contract.

He joins utility back Damian McKenzie, halfback TJ Perenara, flanker Sam Cane and hooker Codie Taylor as All Blacks who will stick around at least two years beyond the next World Cup in Japan.

The 26-year-old has been an impact player at Test level so far, having made all 14 of his appearances off the reserve bench.

Blues coach Tana Umaga was delighted to retain Tu’ungafasi a day after it was confirmed he will lose the services of Bryn Gatland next year.

First five-eighth Gatland has signed a two-season Super Rugby deal with the Highlanders, where he will be a candidate for the No.10 berth left vacant by departing All Black Lima Sopoaga.

The son of Wales coach Warren Gatland will probably contest the playmaker spot with Fletcher Smith.

This week the Highlanders also confirmed the extension of contracts for All Blacks Waisake Naholo and Liam Squire to 2019.