Ex-All Black Tom Willis says he has Wales coach Warren Gatland's blessing to play for Newport Gwent Dragons.

Gatland has argued the Welsh regions should reduce the numbers of non-Welsh qualified players in their squads.

Hooker Willis, 28, said: "Warren told me what he thinks about the issue of non-Welsh-qualified players.

"But I don't think he has any problems with experienced, quality professionals who are prepared to improve the quality of the team and players around them."

Willis and fellow Kiwis James Arlidge and Grant Webb helped launch the Dragons' new kit on Wednesday and fellow countryman Hoani MacDonald is due to arrive in September.

The Dragons have also recruited Australian Marc Stcherbina from Cardiff Blues as well as Welshmen Tal Selley, Duane Goodfield and Shaun Connor.

Willis added: "I know the issue of how many non-Welsh-qualified players playing in Wales is topical and I think it's fair to say out of the four regions we are the one with the least players brought in.

"These guys that get brought in are full-time professionals and are not here to make up the numbers.

"They are here to help improve the team, perform well themselves and ultimately help win games.

"I know the Dragons have a great group of young players coming through, but they're pretty fresh and pretty green and don't quite have that level of experience of top-quality rugby.

"So I suppose I'm one of the players, with a bit of experience, they've picked to help lead the way."

Willis gauged the thoughts of fellow New Zealanders Gatland and Ospreys flanker Marty Holah before agreeing to the move.

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"I thought it would be silly not to consult the people I know with Welsh connections," said Willis.

"I gave Marty Holah a call. He's a good friend of mine from Waikato.

"I even spoke to Warren Gatland about the club and there were other players and friends in the Premiership in England who offered insights into the nature of rugby over here.

"Warren told me despite the Dragons' performances of late they were a team with a bit of potential and some really exciting young players."