Faddes makes it a long-term stay in Dunedin

The 25-year-old, who can play on the wing or at centre, has signed on till 2019.

"I am proud to announce that I have re-signed with the Highlanders until 2019," Faddes said.

"It was a childhood dream to play for these guys and it is a real privilege, so we will see you against the Blues [on] Saturday," Faddes added.

* Meanwhile it was confirmed that All Blacks Ben Smith and Liam Squire are back training this week and expected to line up for the Highlanders against the Blues on Saturday.

Smith missed last Friday's trouncing of the Rebels because of a hamstring strain he picked up the day before at training.

Squire has been out since injuring his knee in the Round Two match against the Crusaders in early March.

He was close to coming back last week but would be available to play on Saturday.

Openside flanker Dan Pryor, who has yet to play a game this year after picking up a knee injury last year while playing for Northland in the NPC, has started running again and may be a chance to play by the end of the month.

The Blues will be without inside back Ihaia West because of an ankle injury, but welcome back Steven Luatua from suspension - while Sonny Bill Williams is a chance to play.