The Brumbies have bolstered their forward stocks with the addition of Auckland-born prop Nic Mayhew on a one-year deal for the 2017 Super Rugby season.

The news comes as front-rower Ruan Smith announced he will leave the Brumbies despite being under contract until the end of 2017.

Smith's departure means he will not add to his 53 Super Rugby caps in Canberra, saying it was "time for the next chapter" in his career.

"It's hard when you have to walk away from the only thing you know," Smith said on Twitter.

"But I'm walking away with a happy heart knowing it was the best time of my life."

New recruit Mayhew has played 11 Super Rugby matches over two seasons with the Auckland Blues after impressing for North Harbour in the New Zealand provincial competition.

The 27-year-old loosehead prop is eligible to represent Australia and England through family ties as well as his native New Zealand.

An injury-plagued three-year stint with Harlequins in England limited Mayhew's playing time in the top flight before he returned to New Zealand and earned a spot in the Blues squad.

Mayhew says he is looking forward to linking up with an international quality front row at the Brumbies.
 
"Being able to work alongside international props such as Scott Sio, Ben Alexander and Allan Alaalatoa will really push me each week," Mayhew said.
 
"The Brumbies set-piece is one of the best in Super Rugby and under the guidance of their coaching staff, I really think I can take my game to a new level.
 
"I played against the Brumbies earlier this year and really respect their style of play.
 
"The goal for me is to continue to improve my game and contribute to the team however I can, so I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity with the Brumbies."

Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham believes Mayhew's stint in "a tough development program" at the Blues has shown he is ready to take the next step in his career.

"He's a solid player with good talent at the set-piece, defensively he's very strong as well," Larkham said.
 
"His addition to the squad will improve our depth in the front row and we are looking forward to having him on board for 2017."