[image[All Black midfielder Ma'a Nonu has resisted overtures from offshore Super 15 franchises to sign a two-year deal with the Blues.
Nonu, told by the Hurricanes he was surplus to requirements for next season two weeks before the end of the current campaign, has also signed sign a contract extension with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) for the 2012 and 2013 seasons.
The new deal allows Nonu to take a playing sabbatical from New Zealand rugby at the end of the year, joining the Ricoh Black Rams in Japan for several months before returning to play for the Blues next season.
Nonu had been courted by the Western Force and the Sharks after being released by the Hurricanes and said his family was behind his decision to choose the Blues.
"I was flattered and grateful to receive offers to play for other teams as well but the Blues was the best option for me and my family and I'm really looking forward to joining them next year.
"I'm happy that I'm continuing my career in New Zealand and would like to thank the Blues for giving me the opportunity to join them," he said.
NZRU chief executive Steve Tew welcomed 29-year-old Nonu's decision to stay in New Zealand.
"Ma'a is an outstanding, world-class player who has been committed to New Zealand rugby for the best part of a decade, and for him to commit further is fantastic news.
"We have said that we will look to be flexible when it comes to re-contracting our leading players and we think giving him the chance to play in Japan is another example of that flexibility," Tew said.
The securing of Nonu, who has played 110 Super rugby matches and 56 tests, was welcomed by Blues coach Pat Lam whose side play their Super 15 semifinal against the Reds in Brisbane on Saturday.
"It's no secret there was a lot of interest in securing Ma'a by teams both locally and around the world. He is a quality player so it's great news for the Blues that he has chosen our team in which to continue his impressive rugby career," Lam said.
