The 34-year-old joined the Scarlets last season and soon become a popular member of the squad and a favourite amongst Scarlets supporters.
He said: “I have enjoyed my time at the Scarlets and I am grateful for the warm welcome and support I have been given in Llanelli from the rugby region and its supporters. I have enjoyed living in Wales, we’ve made some lifelong friends as well as meeting many of the great Scarlets supporters. I hope the region will go from strength to strength.”
Meeuws said he was disappointed to have been injured for a large part of last season and not to have played as full a part as he had hoped in the Scarlets on-field campaign but despite his injury the All Black said he was pleased to have been part of a “great rugby community” and would return to New Zealand with some good memories.
He said: “I felt it was time for a new challenge and my family are looking at an option to return to New Zealand. I haven’t finally decided whether to keep playing in Europe or to take another option and retire from playing and move into coaching. I am in great condition and still have a passion for playing so that makes the decision harder.”
Scarlets head coach Nigel Davies said: “Kees made a big impression with us from the start of last season and has been a great character to have at Parc y Scarlets. He has always been an excellent professional and a source of inspiration for the younger members of our squad who have benefited from his experience during the time he has been with us.
“We thank him for his contribution and we wish him and his family in New Zealand well and all the very best for the future.”
Kees joined the Scarlets in June 2008 from Castres Olympique on a two-year contract. He has been released from this contract a year early by mutual agreement of player and region.
