Guildford finding form back home

Zac Guildford.

A return to his rugby roots has proven beneficial for the mind and soul of Zac Guildford.

The former All Black and current Magpie has credited his current club for his change in fortune.

Speaking to One NEWS last night, the 26-year-old said he was ready to rid the tag of "troubled" and put his battle with addictions in the past.

"I guess that's how people perceive me and that's fair enough."

Guildford now said it is "time to turn over a new leaf". A fresh season has meant a fresh start for Guildford, who has been in fine form since his return to the black-and-white stripes.

Primarily playing at fullback for the province, Guildford is starting to show signs he's near the form he found in 2011 which saw him included in the World Cup squad.

It was after the death of his father in 2008 that Guildford spiralled out of control. His unpredictability, which led him to dizzy heights on the field, began to cost him dearly off it.

"I just didn't feel myself," Guildford said.

Doubts began to creep into his mind questioning whether or not he should even be playing rugby.

Currently contemplating a contract with the Waratahs for next year's Super Rugby season, Guildford has given no thought to the prospect of a return to black.

"I'm happy to be back in the Bay where they play a style more suited to my game."

Guildford has been heavily involved with the squad and in the community since his return from Clermont in France.

He has touched base with the Napier Boys' High School under-15 team - where full-time rugby started for him in 2002.

He spent a day working at Aitkin Construction during the Magpies' "job swap". And he even found time to visit Hastings preschoolers and secondary school students at Hawke's Bay Hospital.

The spring is back in Guildford's step and the tide may be starting to turn on his turbulent career.

The Magpies romped home over Northland in their first true Ranfurly Shield challenge of the season yesterday, and Guildford was again a standout in the 39-10 victory.