Gear (27), the discarded All Black winger, has signed a one year contract with the southern franchise, and is leaving the Hurricanes after eight years.
His signing is a coup for the Highlanders, who have been on the look-out for some strike power out wide.
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph said the signing of Gear, who had flagged a move overseas after missing selection for the Rugby World Cup, was a tremendous boost for the franchise.
"Despite missing out on the All Blacks for the World Cup, he is committed to wanting to get back into the All Blacks and is excited about bringing his family down here and playing for the eam,'' Joseph said.
"He had to make sure the town fitted him and the environment suited him. It was a big decision for him to make to come down here.
Joseph said the signing was a huge boost for the Highlanders, and showed they could now attract top talent, which may not have been the story a couple of year ago.
Gear becomes the fifth recent All Black to leave the Hurricanes since the end of the Super rugby season amid moves by coach Mark Hammett to overhaul the struggling franchise.
In June, Hammett sensationally told centre Ma'a Nonu and team captain Andrew Hore they were not a part of his plans for next year's Super rugby season. Hore has since signed for the Highlanders.
Hammett has since lost scrumhalf Piri Weepu, who will join Nonu at the Auckland-based Blues next season, while flyhalf Aaron Cruden has moved to the Waikato-based Chiefs, following provincial coach Dave Rennie who is taking over in Hamilton next season.
The five were not the only All Blacks to leave the Hurricanes this year. Props John Schwalger and Neemia Tialata are heading to France, while loose forward Rodney So-oialo, who missed most of the Super rugby season with injury, is going to Japan.
All Blacks winger Cory Jane, however, did re-sign with the Hurricanes last week.
- additional reporting Reuters
