Three-time New Zealand international Benson Stanley has announced he intends to leave Clermont Auvergne at the end of the Top 14 season.

Stanley, whose three appearances for the All Blacks came in 2010, joined Clermont from Super Rugby side Blues in 2012.

The centre was part of the Clermont team that finished runner-up in the 2014-2015 Top 14 and European Champions Cup campaigns, but does not expect to remain at the club.

"If I want to continue playing, it will not be here," Benson told Sports Auvergne. "I am very happy at Clermont, but I was made to understand that there is a lot of competition at centre. I am aware of that. There are many very good players here now.

"I have no problem with that. This is the strength of the team. There is competition, it is positive.

"Nothing is decided but it is possible that I stay in France. My family feels good here, my kids want to stay.

"If I was to wish for something in 2017, it would be to win the championship, but that depends on us."

Stanley has made 11 Top 14 appearances this season for league-leading Clermont.