Bonus for the Bay

Hawke's Bay has secured three new players for the 2010 national championship campaign.

Former Wellington first five-eighths Dan Kirkpatrick is returning to take up a place in the side at the end of his campaign with the Blues in the Super 14.

He is a vital acquisition as it is expected Hawke's Bay stalwart Matt Berquist will soon announce he is taking up an overseas option after the Rebel Sport Super 14.

Tighthead prop Anthony Perenise is returning to the side after having 2009 away while halfback Kahn Fotuali'i has transferred from Tasman to Hawke's Bay.

Also re-signed with the side are forward stalwarts Bryn Evans and Michael Johnson.

Hawke's Bay co-coach Tom Coventry said: "The fact that players of their calibre see benefit in signing for us along with the fact that Bryn and Michael have re-signed is further proof that the environment in the Bay is a positive and successful one and we are very determined to continue our push to be a strong competitive force in the rugby landscape."