All Blacks and Blues prop Nepo Laulala has re-committed to NZ Rugby, extending his contract through to the end of 2023.
Laulala, 30, has played 42 tests for New Zealand since making his debut against his country of birth, Samoa in 2015.
He has since amassed 99 Super Rugby games, having previously played for the Crusaders and the Chiefs.
The veteran tighthead was most recently part of the All Blacks Rugby Championship-winning squad and is expected to be in coach Ian Foster's plans for the World Cup in France next year.
Blues head coach Leon MacDonald is delighted to be able to call on Laulala's experience for another Super Rugby season.
"Nepo's been an important part of our squad since he returned home to the Auckland region with his family last year and he's an invaluable part of our tight-five group," MacDonald said.
"He's a quiet family man with strong values but is also a strong contributor to our team discussions - we are pleased to have him back with us for 2023."
