Collins and Gibson loaned to Northland

Auckland have loaned flanker Justin Collins and halfback David Gibson to Northland for this year's national rugby championship.

However Collins has signed a two-year deal with Northland Rugby for 2007 and 2008, which sees his shift as being permanent.

He played 90 games for Northland before moving to Auckland in 2001.

"I'm really looking forward to returning to Northland and making a contribution to the union that launched my career," Collins said in an Auckland Rugby Union statement.

Collins played 50 games for Auckland and was captain of the team that won last year's first division NPC title.

"Some of my fondest memories in rugby have been in the Auckland jersey. My family and I have enjoyed our time in Auckland and we thank everyone who made the experience special."

Gibson has been loaned to Northland for the first three rounds of the 2006 Air New Zealand Cup.

He said he was grateful to Northland Rugby for the opportunity after he had missed the past 12 months of action through injury.

"This is a great opportunity for me and the chance to play for Northland is an experience I am looking forward to," Gibson said.

He has been loaned to Northland for the first three rounds of the competition, after which Auckland will reconsider the loan, depending on their halfback situation.

- NZPA