Smith, 22, was a draft player in the Hurricanes Super 14 squad last year, making 12 appearances for the franchise and scoring one try.

"David very much enjoyed his time here in Wellington last year and we are delighted that he has decided to join us," Wellington Rugby chief executive Greg Peters said today.

"He is one of the most exciting players in New Zealand rugby and will be a huge asset to both Wellington and the Hurricanes."

Smith's Blues team meet the Hurricanes on Friday in a crucial Super 14 match in Auckland which will go some way to determining the semifinalists.