Double World Cup winner Ma'a Nonu will turn out for the Blues in the 2019 Super Rugby competition.
The former All Black has signed a one-year deal with the franchise that finished bottom of the NZ conference this year and hasn't played post-season rugby since 2011.
Nonu, who made 103 appearances for the national team, has played two previous stints with the Blues in 2012, playing one season before joining the Highlanders and then returning to Auckland for 2014.
Blues staff will now face the task of juggling two international second-fives - Nonu and Sonny Bill Williams - on their roster or playing them together, one as an outside centre.
"Our review showed that our backline, while talented and exciting, lacked an experienced figure on a regular basis in the midfield due to injury," says Blues coach Tana Umaga.
"Next season will throw up some other challenges with a new format without the international break and players in line for the World Cup, like Sonny Bill Williams, will be monitored more closely.
"We think Ma'a can play an important role for us and I am sure he can deliver on the field, as well as help guide our young players."
Nonu, 36, last played for the All Blacks at the 2015 World Cup, before signing with Toulon.
"I know the Blues have had some tough times in the last few seasons, but I am excited to play with some of the young and up-and-coming players, who will have long careers and rejuvenate this place.
"And I am looking forward to being under the watchful eye of Tana, who was a mentor when I was coming through, so I am looking forward to doing my best for him and the franchise."
Newshub.
