It's a whole new ball game for rugby great Michael Jones as he launches a new fastfood outlet in South Auckland. The former All Black is opening New Zealand's first Carl's Jr. store in Takanini tomorrow. The Carl's Jr. brand was established in Southern California 70 years ago and is the world's fourth largest burger chain.

Jones will work with his brother-in-law Barry Forsgren to develop the brand around New Zealand over the next five years. Forsgren has been operating Carl's Jr. in American Samoa since 2007.The pair plans to open their second store in Glen Innes in August.

Jones believes New Zealand is ready for new alternatives in the fastfood market. "Carl's Jr. has long been one of my favourite burger brands and I'm sure it will be for many New Zealanders who try it," he says.

Michael Jones has a 5% share in the New Zealand franchise. His wife Maliena also has 5%. Overseas, its advertising has featured high-profile celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton. Jones said he was excited about being involved in the roll-out of the burger brand in this country.

There are already 1262 Carl's Jr. restaurants worldwide including in China, Singapore, Indonesia, Russia, Turkey, Mexico and Canada.