Former Northland representative Dan Bowden has signed with the Blues for the 2015 and 2016 Super Rugby seasons.
Bowden, 28, who previously played for the Highlanders and the Crusaders, has played in England since 2010.
"I'm really excited to be returning home along with my four-month-old baby and wife. I had opportunities to stay in the UK but coming back to be around my family and playing for the Blues is something I've always wanted to do," he said.
Bowden said he was comfortable playing at either first or second five-eighths for the Blues. Pivot has long been an area of concern for the franchise.
"I played 10 for London Irish and mostly 12 for Leicester so I'm comfortable at either," he said.
