Departing favourite Ian Henderson admits homesickness and a desire to star in the NRL are the only reasons he is leaving the Bulls.

The livewire hooker has confirmed he will join New Zealand Warriors at the end of the season.

The Bulls had hoped to retain Henderson, who is out of contract this autumn, as he has been in excellent form during Super League XII.

He isn't guaranteed a starting role due to Great Britain hooker Terry Newton but has been massively influential off the bench and he insists that did not affect his decision.

"I want to go home to be back playing in the NRL but also to be closer to my family and friends," said Henderson.

"It's that simple. It isn't anything about getting more game time or anything like that. I'm just homesick, and Australia is just a short flight back from New Zealand.

"I've missed it most of the time I've been in England. I enjoy the footie aspect over here and love the Bulls but outside of that I do get homesick constantly."

The 24-year-old added: "I wouldn't have joined another Super League club.

"I'd have stayed at Bradford if nothing came in from the NRL and I want to thank everyone at the club for making my time here so enjoyable.

"But everyone growing up in Australia wants to play in the NRL. I had a couple of games there before I came over here but I was probably not as mature as I am now. I want to go back and prove myself."

Henderson, who was actually born in Torquay, joined from Parramatta Eels as a relative unknown midway through 2005.

His arrival coincided with a terrific run that ended in Grand Final glory against Leeds and he was part of the Bulls side that lifted the World Club Challenge last year.

Now the former Sydney City Rooster wants to sign of in style by doing a Grand Final and Challenge Cup double.

"I'm the type of player who always puts in a lot of effort and I'll be doing that for the rest of the year," he added.

"A Grand Final would be even better second time around as I fully appreciate now how hard it is to get there. I was lucky last time.

"Winning the Challenge Cup would be an absolute dream. They're my goals."

Bulls boss Steve McNamara said: "We are very sorry to see Ian go as he has been tremendous for us.

"We would have loved to have kept him for longer but fully understand his decision."

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