Shaun Johnson has called time on his glittering career with the New Zealand Warriors halfback confirming he will hang up the boots at the end of the season.

“This is a decision that I’ve sat with for a while now and one I’m probably still coming to terms with,” the emotional 33-year-old said as he informed his teammates of his decision.

“It’s obviously still very raw but I’m so grateful to the club and to you boys who I get to come into work with every day with a smile on my face. I have never taken any of it for granted.

“The job is not over. So, let’s rip in and get back to doing what we do but I just wanted to let you all know first that at the end of the season, that will be me.”

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Shaun Johnson retirement: New Zealand Warriors halfback calls time on his NRL career

Johnson debuted for the Warriors in 2011 and almost immediately established himself as a leading light in New Zealand rugby league with his lightning quick footwork earing him a legion of fans.

He guided the Warriors to the 2011 grand final during his debut season, before being crowned as the best player in the world in 2014 as he became the heir apparent to Stacey Jones.