NZ Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson says the trans-Tasman travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand played a role in having All Blacks' test against Australia rescheduled.
The original timing would have forced them to spend Christmas Day in managed isolation.
On Thursday, SANZAAR confirmed the test between Australia and New Zealand at Sydney's ANZ Stadium, originally set for December 12, will now be held on October 31.
That means the All Blacks will play their final Rugby Championship match on December 5 against Argentina, giving them plenty of time to return home and complete two weeks of managed quarantine.
Last month, NZ Rugby said it felt "blindsided" by SANZAAR over the original date, but Robinson is pleased with the new outcome. And he can thank the trans-Tasman bubble which will allow Kiwis to travel from New Zealand to New South Wales and Northern Territory without quarantining from October 16.
"We're happy with the arrangement but we're comfortable with it and it's a good compromise for all the parties involved so I'm pleased," said Robinson.
"I'm pleased for our team, management and their families that we can be home for Christmas. That was always an important factor in our consideration for our people.
"The key is the changes with entry into Australia and the relaxation of some of the quarantine protocols so that freed up the opportunity as well.
"Getting those protocols changed was important. The call came together well in the last few days."
All Blacks coach Ian Foster said "common sense" had prevailed in getting the dates changed. Last week Foster revealed a player told him he wouldn't miss Christmas to play in the competition.
"It's been quite a process, but I think the fact that it's so much easier for New Zealanders to go to Australia with the relaxing of the quarantine meant this was the only common sense approach.
"It's good that common sense has won the day and now we've got the chance to play over six weekends. That's a key ingredient for the tournament over in Australia."
Robinson admitted he was unsure if South Africa would take part in the tournament, but said recent discussions were positive.
South Africa' participation has been in doubt as Springboks players have only played twice after a six-month layoff due to the coronavirus pandemic.
South Africa's director of rugby Rassie Erasmus, who feels the team will be underprepared compared to Australia and New Zealand, said a decision will be made by October 10.
"I think Argentina are in Australia and my understanding is that they're preparing to play. With South Africa, we are finding out in the next few days but the reports we have are positive and we will monitor that as it progresses."
The All Blacks face the Wallabies on Sunday in their first test since last year's bronze final against Wales at the Rugby World Cup.
Join us for live updates of the first Bledisloe Cup opener from Sunday 4pm
