Beauden Barrett has put pen to paper on a new contract with NZ Rugby and the Blues, recommitting until the end of 2027.
Barrett's return is welcome news for both country and franchise, after a post-World Cup player exodus that leaves the national team with a rebuild under new coach Scott Robertson.
Barrett, 32, is currently preparing to play in Japan's Rugby League One for Toyota Verblitz, but will be eligible to turn out for New Zealand in mid-2024.
"It's a huge privilege to put on the black jersey and one I will never take for granted," said Barrett. "I'm still really passionate about playing alongside my brothers Scott and Jordie for Coastal, Taranaki or the All Blacks, so I'm looking forward to adding value where I can on my return from Japan.
"I am also grateful for the continued support from Taranaki, the Blues and NZ Rugby."
His return will likely see Barrett compete for the No.10 jersey at test level, with Richie Mo'unga's move to Japan and Toshiba Brave Lupus leaving a hole.
First-five would represent a significant positional switch for Barrett, who cemented himself as first-choice fullback for coach Ian Foster during the 2023 season.
"Beauden brings an enormous amount of class to the table," said Robertson. "He is the second most-capped All Black back in history for a reason, and to have his knowledge and experience in our game is a reflection of his loyalty."
Since his 2012 debut, Barrett has earned 123 caps for the All Blacks, as well as contesting three World Cup campaigns in 2015, 2019 and this year, where he scored a try in New Zealand's final defeat to South Africa.
In Super Rugby, Barrett will remain with the Blues from 2025, with his Japanese deal forcing a break from the competition next year.
"Beauden is wonderful to have at the Blues," said Blues chief executive Andrew Hore. "He's one of rugby's good people and treats everyone with respect.
"He's been a key driver for many of our social projects and community work over the last few years, such as our COVID and flood response, and is someone who's prepared to share his views in the team environment for the greater good.
"We know Beauden feels he has unfinished business here at the Blues and we're confident he will come back with fire in the belly to take the club forward, on and off the field."
All up, Barrett has played more than 150 Super Rugby games - 125 for the Hurricanes, then 30 more for the Blues, where he has been since 2020.
