Melbourne Rebels fullback Jason Woodward will part ways with the club at season's end after agreeing terms on a two-year deal with the Hurricanes.
The Upper Hutt prodigy returns to his home city where he'll attempt to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming an All Black.
Woodward, who earned his 25th Rebels cap against the Brumbies on Saturday, cited family reasons and needing to play his rugby in New Zealand to be eligible for All Black selection as the key factors that swayed his decision.
News of the Woodward's return will be welcomed by Hurricanes fans after fullback Andre Taylor announced he was leaving the franchise to play in Japan.
Woodward played his first provincial season with the Wellington Lions in 2011, before taking up a Super Rugby contract with the Rebels in 2013.
He was also a member of the 2010 New Zealand U20 side who won the Junior World Championship in Argentina.
The Hurricanes chief executive James Te Puni says the franchise is thrilled Woodward has decided to come home.
