PETA Hiku has confirmed he will be leaving Wolves at the end of the season due to family reasons.

“Since I’ve been here my family’s been back over there,” said the New Zealand international, man of the match today against Leigh Centurions as The Wire secured their Super League status for 2018.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here but my partner and my son weren’t ready to come over here and be away from our extended family.

“An opportunity came up to be in New Zealand, where I have a daughter.

“This has got nothing to do with the club here. I’ve enjoyed my time here, the club, the fans, I’ve been overwhelmed with the help since I’ve been here.

“It’s the family decision. They’re all over there, they’re not ready to come over here. We’ve had emotional phone calls over the decision.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here and if I had the opportunity to come back I would grab it with both hands.”

Hiku is understood to have signed a three-year deal with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL.

Wolves’ head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith said: “I’m really pleased Peta joined us for the games he has.

“He’s been sensational since he’s been here.

“He’s a terrific rugby league player.”

Reports emerged in the New Zealand media overnight claiming The Wire will allow the Kiwi international to leave the club on compassionate grounds.

Upon joining from Penrith Panthers in June, Hiku signed a two-and-a-half year deal at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, but several media outlets Down Under reported that New Zealand Warriors were set to take him back to the country of his birth on a three-year contract.

Losing Hiku is clearly a blow to Wolves' planning for the 2018 season.

The 24-year-old has been a revelation since arriving in Warrington, scoring six tries in his nine appearances so far including Wolves' crucial last one in their 32-30 win against Leigh today.