It’s official — Karmichael Hunt is crossing the border to play Super Rugby for the NSW Waratahs.

The controversial codehopper was unwanted by Queensland Reds coach Brad Thorn and will kickstart his career in Sydney after winning the trust of Waratahs mentor Daryl Gibson and signing on a one year deal.

Hunt, 32, was unveiled at a press conference at NSW HQ on Monday morning and has swapped places with fellow utility back Bryce Hegarty, who has signed on with the Reds.

The player swap is the latest example of Rugby Australia’s bid for increased alignment working at Super Rugby level after Hunt’s big salary went to waste in club rugby and the NRC last season.

Bryce Hegarty of the Waratahs passes the ball at GIO Stadium in Canberra. Source: AAP

Hunt didn’t play at all under Thorn in 2018 with the hardline coach taking a strong stance following his latest run in with the law on drug issues.

In a candid interview with Fox Sports last year Hunt blamed mental health issues for his lapses with drugs and alcohol.

The former Wallaby’s behaviour will be under the spotlight in Sydney, particularly after new teammate Kurtley Beale was exposed in two embarrassing videos last week.

More controversy for Beale 0:22

But should he keep his nose clean off the field, Hunt shapes as a key player for NSW this season.

Gibson has vowed to rotate his squad more heavily in a Rugby World Cup year and the versatile Hunt is capable of playing anywhere from 10-15.

That utility value and big match temperament means he remains a potential World Cup bolter if he can rediscover form and confidence with the Waratahs.

“Today we welcome Karmichael to the NSW Waratahs team,” Gibson said.

“We acknowledge the off field issues that Karmichael has faced in the past and today’s decision is one that as a team and a business, we have not taken lightly.

“We have made an informed decision after completing a thorough process by not only speaking with Karmichael, but also his his family, his teammates and broader support network, as well as consulting our own staff, board, players, and extended support team.

Karmichael Hunt of Brisbane City in action at Woollahra Oval. Source: Getty Images

“Karmichael has been very open and genuine with us about his off field issues and his desire to turn things around, not only professionally but personally.

“From a rugby perspective, Karmichael is a great fit for our squad, with the experienced playmaker comfortable playing at 12, 13 or 15.

“One of the findings out of our 2018 season review is that we played our best players too much.

“Our strategy was we needed to improve the depth of our squad and Karmichael helps us with that.

“I was pleased with what we saw from him throughout the NRC from both his attack and defence.

“As a team, we feel we are well set up to provide the level of support Karmichael needs to transition back to professional rugby.

“But equally we have also outlined to Karmichael the standards we set as the NSW Waratahs, both on and off the field, and that we won’t settle for anything less.”

Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson looks on during a Super Rugby training session. Source: Getty Images

Hunt has relocated to Sydney with his wife and three daughters.

“The NSW Waratahs is a team steeped in history,” Hunt said.

“They were one game away from making the final last year and have winning aspirations, I can’t wait to get back in to it.

“It means a lot me that Daryl and the Waratahs have decided to give me another go, I’m ready to take this opportunity with both hands.

“Myself, my family and my friends are all excited for the Super Rugby season ahead.

“I’m always the first to admit that I’ve made mistakes.

“But the time away from the sport has been the most important thing that has happened to me.

Karmichael Hunt and wife Emma have moved to Sydney. Photo: Seven News Source: Channel 7

“It provided me with the opportunity to reassess why I was making bad decisions and work through all of that with my family and my psychologists.

“Spending most of last year away from rugby allowed me to recuperate physically and mentally.

“Now I’m ready for this new opportunity, I’m feeling better than ever and fresher than I’ve felt in years.

“I’m ready to play and just can’t wait to get my hands on the football.”