The 30-year-old front row forward joined the London club in summer 2011 from Western Force after a distinguished career in southern hemisphere rugby that included representing the All Blacks at all age group levels as well as playing for both Wellington Hurricanes and Western Force in Super 14 / Super 15 Rugby.

An unlucky series of injuries meant that the tight head prop's appearances for the Aviva Premiership champions were restricted to 13 last season.

Confirming his decision to return to New Zealand, Tim Fairbrother said, "I've enjoyed my season at Harlequins and am disappointed that I was unable to make a bigger contribution to last year's success. I plan to take some time out of the game to consider my options. I would like to thank all at Harlequins for facilitating my early return home."

Harlequins Director of Rugby Conor O'Shea said, "While Tim's first team appearances may have been limited after an excellent start to last season, he has made a major contribution to the club and to our ultimate success in winning the Aviva Premiership. His work behind the scenes with our young front row forwards has been invaluable and I have no doubt he will continue to have a successful career ahead of him. We are very grateful to him and wish him and his family all the very best for the future."