All Blacks lock and Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu has re-signed through until the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The news comes hot on the heels of the successful opening weekend of Super Rugby Aotearoa, which saw Tuipulotu's Blues beat the Hurricanes 30-20 at a sold-out Eden Park.
27-year-old Tuipulotu has played 30 Tests for the All Blacks and 74 matches for the Blues since making his Test and Super debuts in 2014.
He made the All Blacks Rugby World Cup squad in 2019 playing five Tests at the tournament.
"I am pleased to continue to play for New Zealand Rugby and the Blues until 2023 and excited about the future," said Tuipulotu.
"During the lockdown I realised more than ever how much I love this game and love playing for the Blues. We are beginning to develop into a really good side and it is an honour to lead them.
"I am still young and learning all the time, and I want to establish myself as an international player."