"It's a done deal, we've signed Gareth and New Zealander Paul Tito, " Blues chairman Peter Thomas said.

"Gareth's prowess speaks for itself, while Taranaki captain Tito follows the path of Xavier Rush and Ben Blair."

Wellington Hurricanes, Taranaki and Maori second row Tito, 28, is out of contract at the end of the Super 14 and is seen as ideal cover for the likes of Robert Sidoli.

"The New Zealanders in our squad have added a real edge, " Thomas explained.

"We're targeting the best players and there should be two or three more quality signings to follow Gareth and Paul before next season."

Toulouse coach Guy Noves was prepared to release the 6ft 3ins, 16-stone Ogwr man to the Blues at the start of the season, but was blocked by his directors.