The Western Force have started their rebuilding process by signing former All Blacks halfback Alby Mathewson for the 2013 Super Rugby season.

New coach Michael Foley is looking to add experience and depth to the side after the Force finished last in this year's Australian Conference.

Mathewson, who has spent the past three seasons representing the Auckland Blues, will join the West Australian side as its marquee international signing for next season.

The probing halfback was internationally capped four times for New Zealand in 2010 and has amassed 83 Super Rugby caps since making his debut for the Hurricanes in 2007 against the Reds.

The 26-year-old, who played every match for the Blues in 2012, was named New Zealand's Super Rugby Player of the Year in 2010, leading to his Test debut off the bench in the All Blacks' 20-10 win over Australia in Christchurch that season.