The club has agreed terms for the Blues and Junior All Black fly half to be released from his Air New Zealand Cup commitments with North Harbour, meaning the 25-year-old will join Newcastle for pre-season training and be free to start the new season with the Falcons.

Director of rugby, Steve Bates, said: "Finalising Jimmy's release for the start of the season is a massive boost to the club, because it allows him a summer training with us so we can really hit the ground running with him on board.

"We have seen during the Super 14 what a quality player he is, he has a bit of everything and will be a vital back line leader for us as we enter what promises to be an exciting season for the club."

With Gopperth one of eight new signings at Kingston Park alongside James Hudson, Filipo Levi, Tom Biggs, Rob Vickerman, Josh Afu, Charlie Amesbury and Kieran Brookes, supporters have been backing the club with season ticket numbers already way past last year's final total.

"We feel we have recruited well, there are still some additions to be made to that number but everyone here is really looking forward to the new campaign," said Bates.