Marty Banks, Bryn Gatland or Josh Ioane: Who will don the number 10 jersey for the Highlanders this season?

The Highlanders are more than happy with the battle for the first-choice number 10, with assistant coach Glenn Delaney breaking down the three-way shootout.

With Lima Sopoaga having left New Zealand at the end of the 2018 Super Rugby season, the Highlanders now find themselves without a recognised first choice option heading into this year's campaign.

Journeyman Marty Banks has returned to the Highlanders from a stint in Japan, while Bryn Gatland has also headed south after some impressive Mitre 10 Cup displays over the past couple of seasons with North Harbour.

Young Otago first-five Josh Ioane is another in the mix, having made his Super Rugby debut last year.

Speaking to media today, Delaney talked through the qualities of each candidate, saying that he has no preferred option at number 10 just yet.

"In terms of their abilities, they're all really good - so I'm really happy with them all," Delaney said.

"They've got different strengths. Marty's got a lot of experience and has played this competition before. Josh was with us and spent a lot of time with us in the match 23.

"Bryn's proven that he can play at the level, and play some big games - going back to his game against the Lions for the New Zealand Barbarians.

"It's a really exciting mix, and one we think that will prosper. When you look at what we've got inside that and outside that, I think it's pretty exciting."