The All Blacks have dropped to an all-time low in the latest rugby world rankings, following their third straight test defeat, after going down to the Springboks.
New Zealand find themselves as low as fifth, following the defeat in Nelspruit, their fifth in six matches, and see them overtaken by rivals England.
The All Blacks could've stayed in the fourth place if not for the Springboks scoring late, with opposition substitute Willie le Roux dotting down after the hooter.
Under the world ranking system, there is an extra penalty if the margin of loss is by more than 15 points, with New Zealand losing 26-10 at Mbombela Stadium.
Meanwhile, for South Africa, they draw level with France on points in second position, with Irealand still holding the top spot.
There is also now just one place between the All Blacks and Australia, who remain sixth after their impressive 41-26 away win against Argentina.
The gap is down to fewer than three points, which could be halved if New Zealand are beaten again at Ellis Park this Sunday.
The All Blacks could be playing for their spot by the time they meet the Wallabies next month.
