Griffiths arrived in Wellington after a major falling out at Newcastle Jets, where he was axed by Tinkler late last month along with skipper Kew Jaliens (now at Melbourne City), David Carney, Adrian Madaschi and Billy Celeski.
"I just had to get out of there to be honest. I still enjoy my football and I wasn't doing that there," Griffiths, who has signed until season's end for the finals-bound Phoenix, told the assembled media at Phoenix training.
"I'm here now and it's good to be back playing football again, be happy and put a smile on my face."
When probed on his feeling toward the Jets - a club he had three spells at during his A-League career - the 35 year-old chose his words carefully.
"I think it's well documented what has happened there. It's a fresh start and one I'm looking forward to," he said.
"I have a lot of time for that club but not the owner and not the coach.
"I feel fo their fans and they have been going through a tough time but I'm looking forward and here I am."
Things could have been very different for Griffiths had he decided to head west to link up with Perth Glory after his return from China in 2012.
"Perth have been really good. I just didn't see myself being in that side," Griffiths said.
"They've probably been keen on me for the past three years and I've always kncoed them back.
"I feel really bad for Kenny Lowe in that regard but this opportunity came up and hopefully it can be a memorable year."
While Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick praised his new acquisition and his ability to score goals, Griffiths - who is content to play an 'impact role' as he settles in to his new surroundings - was unconcerned by his image as a 'hot head'.
"When you've got kids you have to be a role model for them," he said.
"I do have that white line fever although it's dimmed a little bit. It's part of my game and I don't think I'm going to change."
Although he has not played for a month, Griffiths said he 'feels good' and is keen to contribute - starting with Sunday's trip to Melbourne Victory.
Meanwhile, Jets coach Stubbins is poised to rush 30 year-old wide-man into his side for Saturday's F3 derby against Central Coast Mariners with Andrew Hoole and Ben Kantarovski suspended.
"Enver has been with us a week now and he’s looking sharper every day," Stubbins said.
"He’s got the jet-lag out of his body now and given we’re minus Andrew Hoole for tomorrow’s match, there’s every chance we’ll call on him in some capacity to participate in the game.
"He’s got great ability in wide attacking areas with assists and goals in his locker, so he’s someone that we’re delighted to now have over the line."
Alivodic joins Newcastle from 2014 Serbian Cup winner FK Vojvodina, with whom he played in the 20213-2014 UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds.
"I am glad to have finally received my clearance," Alivodic, who last played a game in January, said.
"I have played in many derby matches in Serbia for my old clubs, including against Partizan Belgrade and Red Star Belgrade, so I would be very happy to make my debut in an Australian derby."
