New Zealand seamer Tim Southee has revealed his Test retirement plans and will call time on his red-ball career after his team's ongoing WTC campaign.

Southee is New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker in the longest format and the coming series against England at home could mark his final appearance. However, if the Kiwis qualify for the WTC final, he might feature in the summit clash at Lord's in June next year.

Southee’s white-ball plans are still uncertain, and he is yet to take a call on playing the limited-overs internationals against Sri Lanka after Christmas.

"Representing New Zealand was all I ever dreamed of growing up," Southee was quoted as saying by the ICC website.

"To play for the Black Caps for 18 years has been the greatest honour and privilege, but the time feels right to now step away from the game that has given so much to me.

"Test cricket holds a special place in my heart, so to be able to play such a big series against the same opponent my Test career began against all those years ago, and on three grounds that are incredibly special to me, seems the perfect way to end my time in the black cap.

"I'll always be so grateful to my family, friends, coaches, our fans and everyone involved in the game who has supported me and my career over the years. It's been an amazing ride and I wouldn't change a thing."

Southee has represented New Zealand in 104 Tests, 161 ODIs and 125 T20Is so far, claiming a total of 770 wickets across formats. He has had the honour of representing the Black Caps in four ODI World Cups, seven T20 World Cups, and the inaugural WTC final when the Kiwis became the world champions in the longest format.

"Tim's durability and resilience has been outstanding," said New Zealand coach Gary Stead. "Tim cares deeply about the team, its reputation and performances, and he will be missed within the Black Caps environment.