Southee suffered extensive damage to his thumb while diving in the fielding during the recent Plunket Shield match between Northern Knights and Wellington Firebirds.
New Zealand Physiotherapist, Paul Close, said: "Tim Southee has unfortunately been ruled out of the Test series against South Africa.
"He landed heavily on his thumb while fielding, with scans indicating the ligament has fully ruptured and retracted.
"After consultation with NZC medical staff and a hand specialist it was decided the best course of action is for him to have surgery.
"He will commence rehabilitation immediately following the procedure, with a view to him returning to cricket during the home summer.
"The procedure is likely to keep him out of the game for 6-8 weeks. "
A decision on Southee's replacement is yet to be made.
