The Auckland Blues star, nicknamed King Carlos, has signed a three-year deal with the club to fill the void left by fly-half Paul Grayson, who is retiring from the game to become the club’s full-time technical coach, and Shane Drahm, who has moved to Worcester Warriors.

Spencer, aged 29, has played in 35 tests for the All Blacks and scored 291 points with 14 tries, 49 conversions and 41 penalties following his debut against Argentina in 1997.

Spencer has also had racked up 96 caps for the Auckland Blues, for whom he played in the very first Super 12 game against the Hurricanes in 1996. However, Super 12 fans will probably best remember Spencer for the audacious try he scored against the Crusaders last year. In addition, he has played in 93 games for Auckland in the NPC.

Head coach Budge Pountney said: “We are delighted to welcome Carlos to our club. We are sure he will enjoy his time here.

“We regard Carlos as an outstanding world class player who will bring a certain X factor to the club. All we have to do now is make sure we get the ball and space he needs to implement his undeniable talent.”

Budge Pountney, Carlos Spencer and Spencer's agent David Jones

Spencer, who is married to Jodene and has a one-year-old son called Payton, said: “My wife and I are very excited about the prospect of our move to the Saints. I am looking forward to the challenges offered by the move and I am itching to make a contribution to the game on behalf of the club.”

Saints chairman Keith Barwell said: “I met Carlos and Jodene and I am sure they, and their son Payton, will have a brilliant time in the UK. Along with all of our fans, I am really excited about what lies ahead for Saints and Carlos during the next three years.

Carlos in action for the All Blacks