WELLINGTON, New Zealand -- Scrumhalf Aaron Smith has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby for the next four years, joining a group of younger players who will carry the All Blacks forward when senior players retire after this year's World Cup.

The 26-year-old Smith, who has played 41 tests and is New Zealand's first-choice scrumhalf, joins winger Julian Savea, lock Brodie Retallick and hooker Dane Coles in signing deals that continue through the 2019 World Cup.

Smith said "knowing I'm contracted for the next four years allows me to focus on my rugby and there are some exciting challenges ahead for the All Blacks which I hope to be part of."

Captain Richie McCaw, flyhalf Dan Carter, hooker Keven Mealamu and centres Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith are among players expected to quit New Zealand rugby after the World Cup.