The 28-year-old was one of the stars of Wales’ World Cup campaign, finally fulfilling his potential on their run to the semi-final but he has not played since because of a wrist injury which will also keep him out of the 2012 RBS 6 Nations.

And Charteris admits he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to experience the game outside Wales.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at the Dragons.

“I have had some amazing teammates here and the coaching team have been really good to me,” said Charteris

“However, being a professional rugby player gives an opportunity to travel and see the world which I feel I can’t pass up. The chance to live in a different country and enjoy a new culture and way of life is one not everybody gets. A player’s career doesn’t last forever and I want to experience as much as I can.”

The move will come as a blow to Warren Gatland who has recently voiced his concerns over Welsh players overseas and his access to them, but Charteris revealed that he could make a return to regional rugby after his stint away.

“I’m only 28 and I see the Dragons as my home team so after a stint abroad I could perhaps come back a better player to Rodney Parade.

“I’d like to thank everybody at the Dragons who has helped and supported me through the ups and downs and especially the Dragons fans. We are really lucky at Rodney Parade to have the supporters we do.”