Auckland and the Blues are set to welcome former Highlanders and Otago captain Josh Blackie to the region to solve their problems at openside flanker.
Blackie, who is currently playing for Kobe Steel in Japan, has signed a two-year contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union and the Auckland union and will be available for selection for the Blues squad for 2009.
The 29-year-old headed to Japan at the end of the 2007 Super 14 after playing 55 games for the Highlanders and 73 for Otago.
Following the departure of Daniel Braid to the Queensland Reds, Blackie's return will be a relief to new Blues coach Pat Lam as he looks to rebuild a side that has lost a huge number of players from 2008.
Blackie was a sevens star and a Junior All Black who cruelly didn't make the next step to test rugby and left in frustration as much as anything with Richie McCaw ruling the roost.
But 18 months on the Japanese scene will have rejuvenated both his body and his bank balance and he might just fancy another tilt at the All Blacks in a position where there are still question marks below McCaw.
Blackie remains an outstanding No 7 but also has the ability to move around the back row.
NZRU CEO Steve Tew said the return of Blackie was fantastic news for New Zealand rugby.
"As New Zealand rugby fans know, Josh is an outstanding rugby player and his return will certainly provide a boost for the Blues and Auckland â€" and for New Zealand rugby overall," he said.
"It is heartening that a player like Josh is keen to return after his time and experience in Japan."
Blackie's agent Warren Alcock said Blackie was excited to be coming back to New Zealand and was keen to make the most of his opportunities in the Super 14.
"Whilst he previously played all his rugby for Otago and the Highlanders he has opted to return to Auckland because that is where he grew up and he still has family there. Daniel Braid's recent announcement has also clearly made the decision to return to Auckland easier."
Blackie will return to New Zealand early next year at the end of the Japanese season.[/b]
