Blake goes out on loan

The 23-year-old has made six appearances for the Warriors after joining on loan in March 2015 from Edinburgh before the move was made permanent.

He is former New Zealand Under-20 international who played four seasons for Otago before leaving for Edinburgh in 2014.

Represented the Scotland sevens team in 11 world series tournaments before playing his sole Test on the openside flank against Ireland in Dublin last year ahead of the World Cup.

"I am really excited to return home, I was born in Tauranga and spent my early years growing up in Pongakawam," he said.

"It's great to come back especially with my mums family still being based here, so there is plenty of support."

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union Chief Executive Mike Rogers said it was pleasing to bring back a local player.

"Hugh is a very talented loose forward. His international experience will be a great addition to our team especially with the uncertainty around Mitch Karpik as he recovers from his injury that he sustained playing for the Chiefs during their pre-season game in Rotorua."