Two-time World Cup winner with New Zealand Dan Carter has completed his move to the Auckland Blues.
The 38-year-old has been a free agent since returning home in March from Japan, where the COVID-19 shutdown ended his spell with Kobe Steelers.
Carter joins the Blues as an injury replacement for utility back Stephen Perofeta, who fractured a bone in his foot during training and will now miss most of the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition.
Carter lives with his wife and three children close to the Blues base in Auckland.
"Two things from the lockdown that I realised was that I really enjoyed spending more time with my family and that I miss rugby," Carter said.
"Leon is a good mate and we spoke about me helping out. For me it is a chance to mentor some young players and to give back to New Zealand Rugby.
"I have not played for several months so it will take me a little bit of time to get game-ready.
"It’s an exciting opportunity to train in the same city that my kids go to school in and my family are currently living. It will also be nice to share my experience with some of the young talent they have here at the Blues.”
Blues head coach Leon MacDonald said he had kept in touch with Carter since his return from Japan and was keen to have him involved with the club.
"We have a young group of players. Now we have a second world player of the year in the team to help guide our players on and off the field.
"We have two designated 10s in Beauden and Otere, and Dan will be there to help them and our other young backs. If he gets back into playing form that warrants selection, then he could help us as a utility back in midfield or fullback.
"For Dan it is not about the money. He is here as a favour, with a desire to give back to the sport. We are only a few minutes from his home so it works out perfectly for everyone and we are thrilled."
Carter spent his entire professional career in New Zealand with the Crusaders before he went to French club Racing 92 after his international retirement in 2015.
The Blues already have All Blacks outhalf Beauden Barrett in their squad so it's not yet clear how much game time Carter will get when the season gets underway.
The Blues are due to take on the Hurricanes on June 14th on the opening weekend of the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition.
