Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph is leaving Dunedin at the end of this year's Super Rugby season to work in Japan.

Joseph confirmed the move during a media conference at the Highlanders headquarters early this afternoon.

He says making the decision to leave the Highlanders wasn't easy, but it's the necessary progression in his career.

Joseph is in his sixth season with the Highlanders, last year leading the side to its first ever Super Rugby victory.

The 46 year old once played for Japan, including in the 1999 Rugby World Cup.

His earlier All Blacks career spanned 30 matches, including 20 tests.