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"We have very high ambitions at the club, both on a domestic level and in the Amlin Challenge Cup," said Phillips.
"They have recruited big names lately both in the forwards and backs like Jo Rokocoko, Neemia Tialata, Sione Lauaki - all former All Blacks - along with Cedric Heymans from Toulouse and Mark Chisholm from Australia.
"The new players have been added to an already good side so these are exciting times for Bayonne and hopefully the team will get the results they are after.
"And, as last weekend's Top 14 derby between Bayonne and Biarritz was postponed, there is a chance that my first appearance wearing Bayonne's jersey will be against Rovigo in the Amlin Challenge Cup - we will just have to see what the coaches say.
"Apart from the Wasps, our other opponents in the Amlin Challenge Cup are unknown factors to me and when we face Rovigo in Italy on Saturday that is sure to be an interesting experience.
"We are looking to play hard in every game and win every game. Bayonne want to be successful and win everything so we are going to focus on getting our preparation right for both competitions.
"It's a brand new start for me - changing countries, clubs, languages and cultures - while also competing in a different European rugby tournament that I have never experienced before.
"But I guess it's what I need as I want a new challenge and it's just brilliant to be given that opportunity. I am very excited about it and obviously it's the right move for me.
"I would like to put my stamp on things and carry on playing well for Bayonne in all competitions, whether it is the Amlin Challenge Cup or the Top 14.
"I have got to try to get some respect from the new people here, players and fans alike, and that is a challenge in itself. I've got to prove to them that I am a good player so it's going to be both exciting and hard work.
"I have settled in really well and the boys and the management have been absolutely superb to me, they have looked after me really well.
"Being based in the South of France, I couldn't get a better place to live. It has only been just over a week since I arrived and I can't wait to start playing.
"There is already a bit of banter within the squad, especially coming from the youngsters. It is just the beginning but I am sure the camaraderie will grow bigger as time goes on.
"And that's what it is all about, there's a great spirit in the team and I can't wait to be a part of it. I will have to rely on them a lot, especially in the first few months, what with the language and learning the specificities of the team."
