Former All Blacks hooker Liam Coltman has retired from rugby with immediate effect at the age of 36.

Coltman announced his retirement after Otago's NPC semi-final defeat to Northland. He came off the bench and played the final 13 minutes of the match.

The hooker made his provincial debut in 2010 before joining the Highlanders' Super Rugby squad in 2013.

He became their first-choice hooker the following season and played a key role in their historic 2015 title win, featuring in all 19 matches that campaign.

His consistent performances earned him international recognition. After helping New Zealand win the 2010 Junior World Championship, Coltman made his All Blacks debut against Italy in 2016.

He went on to win eight Test caps and was named in New Zealand's squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Coltman started against Canada before coming off the bench in the All Blacks' bronze medal victory over Wales.

At provincial level, he also captained Otago in the NPC. His career later took him overseas, with spells at Lyon in France's Top 14, the Utah Warriors in the United States and Canon Eagles in Japan.

He eventually returned to New Zealand to finish his career in the NPC.

Known for his reliable set-piece work, improved footwork, ability to offload in contact and tireless work rate, Coltman proved a valuable asset to every team he represented.

Reflecting on his retirement on social media, he wrote that “it is time to hang up the boots”.

“The teams I have been in have done some amazing things, those memories, and the mates I’ve made them with are the best parts of rugby. It’s always been an honour and a privilege,” Coltman said.

He added: “Grateful to you all for helping me live my dream.

“Looking forward to spending more time with my family and friends, having time to get out in the great outdoors and learning something news by starting up on the tools next year with @mike_kapua_builders.

“Thank you to the great game that is rugby.”

The replies to his Instagram announcement have already seen a wave of support from numerous past and present All Blacks stars.

Legendary scrum-half Aaron Smith said, "Nothing but love Colty! Day 1," while current All Blacks fly-half Richie Mo'unga said, "On ya Colts! Pleasure playing with and against you brother! All the best with the next chapter."

Lima Sopoaga, who played with Coltman in the 2015 Super Rugby-winning Highlanders team, added his support for the hooker, "Absolute shift colt. I’ll never forget getting to share that one beer with you after we won in 2015 was a glorious day man. Enjoy the next stage brother."

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