Beauden Barrett is returning to the Blues after his stint playing in Japan, recommitting to New Zealand Rugby until the end of 2027.

Barrett will be available for the Blues for their 2025 campaign, having already played 30 matches for the side since his debut in 2020 against the Hurricanes at Eden Park.

He has amassed 199 points for the Blues and has been an integral part of the club in recent years both on and off the field.

Barrett said once he decided his future lay in New Zealand, the Blues was where he wanted to return.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Blues jersey so far and I’m looking forward to reconnecting with the club when I get back to New Zealand,” he said.

“For my family and I, Auckland has now become our home, although Taranaki will always be in my heart. I have enjoyed my time with the Blues and I know we can achieve results that reflect the talent we have in the squad.”

“I’m still hugely motivated to win championships with this team and that is where my focus lies. I have met some great people who support the Blues and we share the same vision for this team.”

Blues CEO, Andrew Hore, said the club were elated to have the star playmaker back in blue.

“Beauden is wonderful to have at the Blues, he’s one of rugby’s good people and treats everyone with respect,” said Hore.

“He’s been a key driver for many of our social projects and community work over the last few years, such as our Covid and flood response, and is someone who’s prepared to share his views in the team environment for the greater good.”

“Any contract extension is when we reflect on a player’s time at the club and in finalising this contract it gave the Blues and Beauden the opportunity to review where we’ve come from and commit to the vision we have for the team and club.”

“We know Beauden feels he has unfinished business here at the Blues and we’re confident he will come back with fire in the belly to take the club forward on and off the field,” said Hore.

NZR CEO, Mark Robinson said he was “thrilled” to have Barrett back in New Zealand.

“Beauden is not just an exceptional player but also an outstanding leader on and off the field. His return is a testament to the strength and appeal of our rugby environment.
“It’s great to have him return next year and be eligible to continue his career with the All Blacks while also lining up for the Blues the following year, contributing to the ongoing success of rugby in New Zealand.”