The South African-born 22-year-old had two seasons with Auckland but was not getting the regular opportunities he craved.
When Otago coach Rob Walter called with an offer, the muscular right-hander knew the move made sense.
''I thought it was a good opportunity to have a fresh start,'' Hicks said.
''It didn't go as well as I was hoping in Auckland.
''I got offered another contract with the Aces but with [Otago all-rounder] Sam Wells retiring and there being a few all-rounders around in Auckland, I just thought I would get more playing opportunities by moving here.''
During the years, the track south from Auckland to Dunedin has proved beneficial for many players.
Middle-order batsman Anaru Kitchen made the same move two years ago and had a standout summer last season, picking up five end-of-season awards, including player of the year.
Wicketkeeper Derek de Boorder started out at Auckland more than a decade ago and has forged an impressive career behind the stumps for Otago.
Former New Zealand test opener Mark Richardson made his name in Otago after labouring in Auckland.
But of more relevance to Hicks is Neesham's journey. The Black Caps all-rounder transferred to Otago from Auckland six years ago in search or more game time with just a handful of domestic games under his belt.
Neesham quickly established himself as a first-choice Otago player and has gone on to play 12 tests, 15 twenty20s and 41 ODIs for New Zealand.
Hicks has played a similar amount of games as Neesham had at the same stage in his career.
''Obviously, I would like it to pan out like that,'' Hicks said.
''I heard he was in the same boat. It worked out for him and it is something that I want too.
''Obviously with Neesham here with us [and out of favour with the national selectors], I just have to wait for my opportunities.
''If it does come I just want to make sure I'm ready for it. Whether I get selected or not, I just want to make sure I've put in the hard work because that is all I can do.''
Hicks, who has played nine first-class games and averages 20.64 and 55.33 with the ball, moved to Dunedin a month ago.
He is from Pretoria but moved with his family to New Zealand when he was 14.
Hicks has moved into a flat in St Clair and is contemplating getting a fishing rod so he can join his team-mates, keen anglers Mark Craig and Christi Viljoen, on any fishing trips that might pop up.
Otago opens its season with a Plunket Shield match against Canterbury in Christchurch next week.
