Rawlinson won his first All Black cap in June 2006

The 28-year-old, who has made three appearances for the All Blacks, will join the Warriors from Auckland Blues.

Rawlinson, who is 18 stone and 6ft 7in, was born in South Africa and moved to New Zealand in 2002.

"This underlines the ambition of Worcester Warriors," said Worcester coach Mike Ruddock.

"Greg is an exceptionally talented lock and his signing is an illustration of where we want to take the club."

Rawlinson rejected approaches from the Springboks to remain in All Black contention and was rewarded with a call-up to face Ireland in June 2006.

He became only the second ever South African-born All Black, after Andrew Mehrtens who was also born in Durban.

I plan to play a big role in an exciting new era at Warriors Greg Rawlinson

Ruddock added: "It is crucial we maintain our dominance in the forward pack and the second row was an area I targeted as one to strengthen.

"Greg has built a big reputation for himself in New Zealand as one of the best line-out forwards and scummagers in the Super 14.

"He will now want to prove himself in the Guinness Premiership and I expect him to make a big impact at the club.

"We have still got positions I want to fill with the World Cup and call-ups also to consider. We want strength in depth and we are planning to announce some more positive news in the very near future."

Rawlinson qualifies as a non-overseas player via his South African passport under the Kolpak ruling.

The Kolpak regulations allow players from countries that have associate agreements with the European Union to enjoy the same employment rights as those born within it.

Rawlinson said: "I've spoken to Mike Ruddock at length and we share a lot of common beliefs about how the game should be played.

"I have been thoroughly impressed by his vision for the club and how he wants this club to move forward.

"I also have many friends in England who have told me about the potential at Warriors, the stadium development and fanbase they have.

"The arrival of new signings, including Sam Tuitupou who I know well from Auckland Blues, combined with the existing squad will now take the club to the next level.