Paceman Lockie Ferguson may make his test debut, after being named in the Blackcaps squad for series against England and Australia.
The 28-year-old has been confirmed in the 15-man New Zealand squad to take on England in two tests later this month and three in Australia, starting next month.
Ferguson is one of five fast bowlers named, alongside Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Matt Henry.
Along with Ferguson, leg-spinner Todd Astle has also been included, with the pair replacing spinners Will Somerville and Ajaz Patel from the last test series against Sri Lanka.
The squad also features the return of captain Kane Williamson, who missed the T20 series against England with a recurring right-hip injury.
Selector Gavin Larsen said Ferguson fully deserved his selection on Plunket Shield form with Auckland. After snaring 4/23 against Wellington last week, he has 153 first-class wickets at an average of 24.3.
"There's no doubt Lockie has been knocking on the door for a while now and we're delighted to bring him into the test fold," Larsen said.
"It's well documented he has raw pace, but he also possesses a quality bowling skillset and has proved his durability.
"Our pace bowling stocks are strong at the moment, and we feel Lockie will add another dimension to the picture and will create some great competition."
Larsen added it was great to see Williamson back and ready to lead the team for a historic inaugural test at his home ground at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval.
"Kane's made good progress over the past fortnight, and we're delighted to welcome back a player of his class and experience.
"It's obviously going to be a very special test for him and Trent Boult, being such passionate locals. We know there's already a lot of excitement in that part of the Bay of Plenty."
The first test begins in Mount Maunganui on Thursday, with the second starting in Hamilton the following Friday.
Blackcaps test squad: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling.
