"I knew Dan Hawkins from the Rebels as well, Hawkey always said [the Taniwha] was like a second family for him," he said.
"I kind of get that impression, and I've only been here a week, but I've been made to feel really welcome."
Despite being from the other side of the world, the 27-year-old said the Mitre 10 Cup has always been something he has looked at.
"I remember watching the Mitre 10 Cup in Scotland and thinking it was really good quality rugby. To get a chance to finally play it is really exciting.
"You always watch the running rugby and think 'right that's the type of rugby I'd rather play', instead of the European stuff where it's set piece dominated."
"This opportunity came about quite quickly, I've been injured for most of the year but was keen to play more rugby and was coming off contract."
Douglas believed from what he'd seen so far the squad was in good shape, adding his focus was on getting the job done on the field and being part of a Taniwha resurgence this season.
Coach Derren Witcombe noted Douglas was touted as a strong line out forward, and a classic tight forward who didn't mind doing the dirty work in scrums and rucks.
Northland's first game of the Mitre 10 Cup season is at Toll Stadium against Bay of Plenty on August 20.
They take on North Harbour in a pre-season fixture at Kerikeri Sports Complex on Friday.