The All Blacks Sevens have included teenagers Caleb Tangitau and Che Clark in the team to defend their Commonwealth Games crown at Birmingham next month, but the NZ women have opted for experience in their quest for back-to-back golds.
Tangitau lit up the 2022 world series, with 17 tries across four tournaments, while Clarke was a standout performer during their Oceania Sevens championship run.
"We went into this year with an open mind in terms of looking at players in training and across all the tournaments we've played," said head coach Clark Laidlaw. "Several of our younger players really forced their way into contention with their performances.
"The youth, excitement and energy they will bring, alongside our experienced players, is a nice balance. We have these experienced players who are at the top of their game, which means our younger players can come in and really express themselves."
Sam Dickson, who missed last year's Olympic Games through injury, will lead the side, with veterans Dylan Collier and Joe Webber providing support as vice-captains.
Meanwhile, the Black Ferns Sevens have named an experienced team to defend their title in England. Eleven of the players in the squad were part of the winning 2018 campaign.
Head coach Cory Sweeney is delighted with the balance of the squad and hopes it will pay dividends in the knockout games.
"It is great to have experience in the side and that is balanced with some young players, who have been getting more exposure this year and really impressed," he said.
"We know small moments win games, but sometimes those small moments take a little longer to come. Knowing that these players have that trust in each other is important.
"We've been there before and that gives us confidence that we have the ability to come out on top."
New Zealand men's team: Leroy Carter, Che Clark, Dylan Collier, Scott Curry, Sam Dickson, Moses Leo, Ngarohi McGarvey-Black, Sione Molia, Tone Ng Shiu, Akuila Rokolisoa, Caleb Tangitau, Regan Ware, Joe Webber
Travelling reserves: Amanaki Nicole, Roderick Solo. Non-travelling reserves: Brady Rush, Kurt Baker, Trael O'Flaherty-Joass, Tim Mikkelson
New Zealand women's team: Michaela Blyde, Kelly Brazier, Theresa Fitzpatrick, Sarah Hirini, Stacey Fluhler, Jazmin Hotham, Shiray Kaka, Tyla Nathan-Wong, Risaleaana Pouri-Lane, Alena Saili, Niall Williams, Tenika Willison, Portia Woodman
Travelling reserves: Terina Te Tamaki, Mahina Paul. Non-travelling reserves: Shakira Baker, Ruby Tui, Manaia Nuku, Tysha Ikenasio
