Sonny Bill Williams' return for the Blues couldn't prevent the Hurricanes bagging a 36-15 to claim the competition lead.

Cross-code star Williams returned from a lengthy injury layoff to set up a try with a trademark offload, but was otherwise subdued for the home side, who fell away in the second half at home at Eden Park.

The Hurricanes scored five tries to two in notching a ninth successive win, inching past the Crusaders at the top of the standings, although the defending champions can reclaim first seed if successful against the Waratahs on Saturday.

Hooker Ricky Riccitelli and excellent No.8 Gareth Evans scored tries to put the Hurricanes up 14-8 following a forgettable first half.

Prop Ofa Tu'ungafasi's try gave the Blues a momentary lead but Nehe Milner-Skudder, Sam Lousi and Matt Proctor crossed to leave the Blues without a win in 16 successive inter-conference games.

A bright point for the Blues was their first-half try to Orbyn Leger, set up when Williams drew three defenders to put him in with an offload.

Williams missed the last six rounds with a fractured wrist, but has returned in time to force his way into All Blacks Test contention.