Mehrtens has won 70 caps for the All Blacks and scored 967 points; a total that makes him the leading points scorer for New Zealand and the third highest in the world behind Neil Jenkins (Wales) and Diego Dominguez (Italy). Indeed, he was the fastest player to reach 100, 200, 600, 700, 800 and 900 points in Test matches.

Prior to making his All Blacks debut in April 1995, Mehrtens represented New Zealand at Under 19 and Colts level.

In addition to his achievements at international level, Mehrtens was also a key member of the Crusaders side that won the Super 12's four times in five years (1998 to 2000, 2002), and is second in the tournament's all-time scoring list. He was also on three NPC-winning Canterbury sides in 1997, 2001 and 2004.

"I am very excited about joining NEC Harlequins. Whether I had been selected to play for the All Blacks against the Lions or not, I have reached a time in both my rugby career and my personal life where I am seeking new challenges," said Mehrtens. "I have been impressed with everything I have seen and heard about the club."

"I am looking forward to arriving in London at the end of July and to helping Quins achieve their aim of becoming one of the top teams in Europe. I have been reading about the history of Harlequins and it will be a tremendous privilege to be part of the Club in the coming seasons."

"I am delighted that such an experienced international has decided to join NEC Harlequins. Andrew is a world class performer, whose record at the highest level speaks for itself," said Mark Evans, NEC Harlequins Chief Executive.

"Apart from his undoubted quality as a player, I have also been impressed with his attitude in our negotiations, particularly after our disappointing end to last season. He constantly reaffirmed that he wanted to play for NEC Harlequins, and that he wants to assist in building one of the most successful teams in Europe."

In addition to Mehrtens, Quins have also signed the following four players on two-year contracts:

James Richards (hooker) - the 29 year-old will be joining the club from the Newport Gwent-Dragons, whom he represented in last seasons Heineken Cup. Richards spent much of the 2003/04 campaign with Leicester Tigers, having played for Newport for four seasons prior to this.

Ricky Nebbett (tight head prop) - the 27 year-old will be joining the club from Leinster and returning for his second spell at the Stoop, having left Quins to joins Leicester Tigers in March 2000. He has represented England at Under 21 and A level.

Aston Croall (prop) - the 20 year-old will be joining the club from Saracens. He has represented England at Under 16, 18, 19 and 21 level, and is currently with the England Under 21 squad competing in the IRB Under 21 World Championships.

Ian Vass (scrum half) - the 24 year-old will be joining the club from Bedford Blues, having previously played for Northampton Saints and Stade Francais. In addition to being part of the Northampton squad that won the Heineken Cup in 1999/2000, Vass has represented England at Under 18, 19 and 21 level.