GLOUCESTERSHIRE have signed New Zealander Kieran Noema-Barnett on a three-year contract.

The 27-year-old all-rounder, who plays for Central Districts in his home country, is a former Kiwi under-19 international.

Noema-Barnett has the reputation of being a hard-hitting left-handed batsman, averaging just over 30 with a top first class score of 107, and useful seam bowler with 57 wickets at 32.98 apiece.

He has captained Central Districts for the last two seasons in New Zealand, but has handed over that responsibility for this winter to concentrate on his own game and International aspirations.

Noema-Barnett is a one-day specialist, having played in 45 List A and 63 Twenty20 matches and recorded the fastest half-century in New Zealand T20 history – and fifth fastest ever – when he hit 50 off 14 balls for the Central Stags against Otago Volts in 2010.

He has a British passport so is not classed as an overseas signing.

Last month he appeared for Gloucestershire in a Second XI match against Glamorgan at Bristol.

Gloucestershire director of cricket John Bracewell said: “It is fantastic news to have signed Kieran for the club.

“He is a fine all-rounder in all forms of the game and will strengthen and support our developing group with his leadership experience.”

Noema-Barnett added: “I'm rapt to be joining Gloucestershire Cricket. It's a very exciting time for myself and the club and I can't wait to get involved with the lads and contribute to the team.”