New Zealand Rugby boss Steve Tew has admitted keeping players from leaving our shores for the small fortunes available in the northern hemisphere is the most challenging "it's ever been".
Tew told Radio Sport yesterday the battle to keep top Kiwi talent and All Blacks is getting more difficult with offers becoming larger every year in Europe and Japan.
"There's no doubt the player market is as hot as it's ever been," said Tew. "The money coming out of Japan and France in particular is a bit concerning but there's no breaking news in that, is there?
"I think the money has increased in both those markets at least and there are some signs that it might heat up a bit in the UK too.
"Inevitably some will move on and we know now that a number are going to after this World Cup and that is the inevitable cycle that we're now in."
New Zealand Rugby has already lost some top talent heading into the Rugby World Cup with the likes of George Moala, Malakai Fekitoa and Lima Sopoaga all choosing financial support for their families over the black jersey.
There's also those such as Nehe Milner-Skudder already confirmed to leave after this year's tournament in Japan with rumours stars like Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty also looking to do the same.
Tew said the biggest concern is how depleted the revered depth New Zealand rugby could be should more talent head overseas.
"At every level we're looking to retain the talent we want, from our sevens players right through to the top very experienced All Blacks."
The governing body has managed to lock down some big names though with Ardie Savea, Damian McKenzie and Dane Coles all sticking in New Zealand until 2021.
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