Kieran Foran hailed his decision to escape the Sydney fishbowl existence as he attempts to get his life and NRL career back on track in Auckland.
The former New Zealand Test playmaker has been cleared by the NRL to return in round three, against Canterbury in Dunedin on March 17, following his public fall from grace last year.
The 26-year-old was admitted to hospital following a prescription drug overdose in the wake of the breakdown of his relationship with long-term partner Rebecca Pope.
Auckland-born Foran also came under scrutiny for his relationship with former brothel owner Eddie Hayson, a key figure in an on-going police investigation into match fixing.
After walking out on his multi-million dollar four-year deal with Parramatta, he linked with the Warriors.
Speaking publicly for the first time since his move, Foran appeared briefly on stage at the Warriors' season launch on Wednesday.
"It's been a breath of fresh air really, I needed it," he said.
"It's great to get out of Sydney and get home around extended family and just get back to my roots and be around big love and just start afresh at a new club."
The NRL last week approved Foran's return, having satisfied the integrity unit he was in a fit and proper state of mind and sorted out his personal life.
He will have to undergo final mental health checks before his return and will face off against the Eels in a round six blockbuster at Mt Smart Stadium.
He said he had already felt some much-needed love and support from the Warriors players and staff and was relaxed and settled in Auckland.
"It's been brilliant, the boys have made me feel welcome from the get-go and I just think all Kiwis are like that," Foran said.
"It's just one big family and it's no different at the Warriors. I've really enjoyed my time so far."
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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