Wing one minute, midfield the next; this theme continues for the world-class finisher.
Ioane, the star All Blacks left wing, has been shifted back to second five-eighth to replace the injured TJ Faiane for Saturday's clash with the Jaguares at Eden Park.
With Sonny Bill Williams thought to be one week away from returning after wrist surgery, Ioane has been paired in the midfield with Orbyn Leger.
Faiane is out for at least two weeks after spraining his ankle in last week's loss to the Highlanders.
Ioane has made no secret of his long-term quest to develop into a centre but his immediate future for the All Blacks remains on the wing, and he has struggled to adjust when thrust into the unfamiliar No 12 jersey this season.
This week Blues have also lost All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu, who has been unwell.
The only good news is the possible return of captain Augustine Pulu, bracketed at halfback with Jonathan Ruru, as he attempts to return from a foot complaint.
Gerard Cowley-Tuioti makes a timely comeback to take Tuipulotu's place in the second-row.
Elsewhere Bryn Gatland appears to have paid the price for the Blues' underwhelming form with Stephen Perofeta moved from fullback to his favoured first-five role, and Matt Duffie slotting in at the back.
"It is definitely nice to see some players back out running with the team on the training field, but for those bracketed, it will depend how they come through our contact session this afternoon," Blues coach Tana Umaga said.
"While our injured list has been well publicised, equally we do not want to rush players back, especially those who have been out of action for some time. We have some who are close to full fitness but their long-term health and welfare is our main priority and we won't rush them back."
Tumua Manu, who scored a try off the bench in his debut last week, gets a start on the left wing joining Jordan Hyland on the right edge.
North Harbour prop Sione Mafileo is promoted for his first start while hooker Leni Apisai comes on to the bench.
Northland's Kara Pryor will need to come through training today after a knock against the Highlanders and is bracketed with Dalton Papali'i at openside.
Umaga will name his bench later today.
Blues team:
Matt Duffie, Jordan Hyland, Orbyn Leger, Rieko Ioane, Tumua Manu, Stephen Perofeta, Augustine Pulu/Jono Ruru, Akira Ioane, Kara Pryor/Dalton Papalii, Jimmy Tupou, Josh Goodhue, Gerard Cowley-Tuioti, Sione Mafileo, James Parsons, Pauliasi Manu.