The Hurricanes have signed Waratahs lock Sam Lousi on a multi-year deal that will see him play with the side through to the end of 2018.
The Auckland-born former NRL player will head to Wellington at the conclusion of the Waratahs season and play for the Wellington Lions during the 2016 Mitre 10 Cup before joining the Hurricanes for the 2017 season.
"It was a very hard decision to make as the Waratahs have given me the opportunity and I have enjoyed my time there," Lousi said.
"When the opportunity came along to join the Hurricanes and move home it was too hard to turn down. I'm excited to be part of the team next season and also look forward to furthering my career."
Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd said he was excited for the signing.
"Sam is a big, powerful man and has a lot of raw potential so we're looking forward to helping him develop his game. I'm sure he'll fit in really well at the Hurricanes."