SUPER SKILLS: Rene Ranger will leave French rugby later this year to return home to New Zealand where he will play for North Harbour and the Blues.

Former All Black Rene Ranger will return home this year.

After two seasons with French club Montpellier, Ranger has gained an early release from his contract.

He will return to New Zealand mid-year and prepare for the NPC with North Harbour, and then rejoin the Blues in 2016.

The 28-year-old's shift to the North Shore is a surprise, after playing 65 games for Northland and captaining the province.

Ranger said his move home was for family reasons.

"Family comes first and that is the big motivator to return. I want to be able to help my mum more," he said.

"I started my Super career with the Blues and they have always been close to me. JK [Blues coach Sir John Kirwan] has always backed me and motivated me to be my best.

"They are a quality side, but execution is letting them down so far. Hopefully I can play a positive role because backs get excited with the sort of front-foot ball the Blues are getting."

The six-test utility scored six tries in his first 15 games for Montpellier, helping them enjoy a strong season.

"I will come home a better rugby player," he said. "I am mentally stronger and I've learnt a lot that I can bring back into the Blues environment."

Ranger is focused on pushing for an All Blacks recall, and his return has been welcomed by New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew.

"It's great news that Rene has chosen to resume his rugby career back in New Zealand," Tew said.

"He's a classy player with the ability to surprise. That makes him a favourite of fans.

"He will have learnt much from his time in France and is sure to be an exciting drawcard for the Blues and North Harbour."

Kirwan said Ranger's homecoming would bolster the team with star quality.

"Rene made his mark on the game in this country as a remarkable attacking player, always able to break tackles, often when there was nothing on," Kirwan said.

"His experience in Europe will have helped further round his skills and add to his experience.

"With the likes of Charles Piutau, it will give us a potent attacking unit."

Ranger said he remained a Northlander at heart, but his decision to join North Harbour was based on the desire for his family to be based in one place.

"Last time I travelled from Northland and lived on my own. Our family wants to be together in one place and from that point, I have decided to play for North Harbour," he said.

"They are a young team trying to build and that is something new and challenging for me."

North Harbour coach Steve Jackson was enthused at securing Ranger's talents.

"He is a quality footballer and he has that X factor" Jackson said.

"He will provide real leadership to the backs off the field, and on it he has the ability to break open a game at any time."