Rugby: Loyalty keeps Mealamu in NZ

All Black, Blues and Auckland hooker Keven Mealamu has re-signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and the Blues franchise through until 2013.

The 32-year-old rake today said the decision to stay in New Zealand came down to the loyalty he felt towards the NZRU.

"Loyalty is something I believe in and I have always hoped I could repay the support I have been given by showing my continued loyalty to New Zealand." he said.

Mealamu has played 83 tests for the All Blacks and is the first Blues players to appear in 100 matches at Super level.