New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter has announced that he will take a six-month break from rugby after the All Blacks' tour Europe in November.

The 31-year-old said that he is feeling the effects of more than a decade at the top and hopes to extend his career by taking a sabbatical.

"When you play the game full-time at this level it does take a toll on your body," Reuters quotes the two-time IRB World Player of the Year as saying.

"I've had a few injury niggles over recent years, so I'm keen to ensure I do everything I can to recover fully from those and prolong my career."

New Zealand will play France, England and Ireland during the tour of Europe, which starts in Paris on November 9.