New Zealand international Ma'a Nonu returns to the Hurricanes

Nonu will return to the Hurricanes after two campaigns with the Blues, split by a season with the Highlanders.

The 32-year-old inside-centre was axed by Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett after a turbulent 2011 season but the coach's imminent departure to Cardiff has paved the way for the 91-Test All Black to return.

It is a move that has excited incoming Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd.

"I coached Ma'a for the first time back in the early 2000s in the Wellington B team, so we have a long history together as a player and coach," Boyd said.

"I'm really looking forward to having him back in the environment and working with him again."

After being jettisoned by the Hurricanes for his disruptive behaviour in 2011, Nonu had three unsettled years at the Blues and Highlanders.

Hammett blamed Nonu and another former Hurricane - Andrew Hore - for a culture of ill discipline at training.

But Nonu claimed on Wednesday that Hammett's decision had helped him.

"I could honestly say I was bitter in terms of when I left. These things happen and life throws you challenges in terms of what you want to get out of it," he said.

"I've come through a better person and have new motivations to play rugby.

"I've learned a lot over the last three years. There's some good people, and some not so good people. For me it's surrounding myself with good people.

"I can honestly say it was a blessing in disguise, going to new places where I was really uncomfortable and vulnerable at times. You learn these things when you leave home. The last three years has been challenging but I wouldn't have wished for anything more to happen.

The powerful midfielder has been keen to return to Wellington to be with his family and the Blues have agreed to release him from the remainder of his contract despite him arguably having his best Super Rugby season in years.

Nonu said he was thankful for the support the Blues have shown him after they agreed to sign him when he was unwanted by other New Zealand clubs this year.

But he was also grateful to be coming back to the Hurricanes.

"I'm very happy to be heading home to the family again and am looking forward to the challenge ahead in 2015," Nonu said.

Nonu's arrival will help to offset the departures of Tim Bateman and Alapati Leiua.

Bateman is going back to Japan, while Leiua has signed for Aviva Premiership side Wasps.