Former New Zealand rugby international Mils Muliaina will leave Connacht at the end of this season.

It will spells the end of single year with the Irish province as he takes up a one-year deal at Italian Pro 12 side Zebre this summer.

The 34-year-old made his Connacht debut against his soon-to-be new team in November.

"Even in one quick year, Mils has made a lasting contribution to Connacht Rugby," said head coach Pat Lam.

"His influence on and off the field with our young squad has been invaluable and I know the players, particularly the backs, have benefited from his vast experience. A big part of our growth as a team this season has been around challenging each other to reach higher standards and Mils was massive in driving this.