All Blacks forward Simon Parker has withdrawn from New Zealand's November tour for personal reasons, with assistant coach Tana Umaga reportedly shedding more light on his absence.

The Chiefs back-rower was a notable omission from the 36-man squad for the Nations Championship fixtures against Scotland, Wales and England.

New Zealand Rugby initially confirmed Parker would miss the trip for personal reasons, without giving further details.

However, Umaga reportedly shed more light on Parker's absence during an interview with Sport Nation's Scotty & Izzy show, suggesting the forward was staying home to look after his family.

No further details have been made public, and there is no confirmed date for his international return.

Parker's absence comes at a difficult time for the All Blacks, who are already dealing with several injury concerns.

His withdrawal leaves head coach Dave Rennie with another decision to make in the back row.

Leicester Fainga'anuku and Christian Lio-Willie have both been included in the squad, giving New Zealand more options.

The All Blacks face Scotland and Wales before travelling to Twickenham to take on England.

Parker will miss those fixtures, with his immediate focus remaining away from rugby.

Nine other All Blacks missing November tour

Parker is not the only notable absentee from Rennie's squad.

Nine other players have been ruled out through injury, including several established internationals.

• Ardie Savea – Shoulder
• Caleb Clarke – Shoulder
• Shannon Frizell – Knee
• Luke Jacobson – Elbow
• Tyrel Lomax – Neck
• Samisoni Taukei'aho – Calf
• Leroy Carter – Ankle
• Ruben Love – Ankle
• Ollie Norris – Knee

The injury list leaves New Zealand without several key forwards, including Savea, Frizell and Lomax.

However, there is better news elsewhere.

Richie Mo'unga has been recalled to the All Blacks, although his calf injury is expected to keep him out of the opening Test against Scotland.

Jordie Barrett, Anton Lienert-Brown and Ethan Blackadder are also back in the squad.

Rennie will hope those returning players can help New Zealand overcome their growing injury problems.