While much of the All Blacks narrative has so far centred on change, the old guard will clearly play a pivotal role in ensuring they start the year on the right note.
New coach Scott Robertson has injected no shortage of energy and enthusiasm into the squad, but as they brace for the English under the Dunedin roof to start the test season, they'll lean on those who have been there, done that.
Despite the freezing conditions, Beauden Barrett is back doing what he's done for the past 13 years. Since his debut in 2012, his enthusiasm for the jersey and pride in the team he's played 123 times for hasn't wavered.
Nor has it gone unnoticed by the new coaching regime.
"I've been so impressed with Beaudy, his care for the group," said assistant coach Scott Hansen. "He's a proud All Black and I've really enjoyed being around Beaudy, which for me is the first time."
Barrett isn't just leaving an impression on his new coaches, but on his opposition as well.
George Furbank was just 16, when Barrett made his All Black debut. The prospect of facing him in Saturday's first test in an exciting one.
"The likes of Beauden Barrett is someone I’ve looked up to since I was young, and watched him and admired him, so it'll be an amazing experience."
Barrett is highly likely to be handed the No.15 jersey, but elsewhere, Robertson has plenty to mull over.
Blindside flanker presents a toss up between Ethan Blackadder and Samipeni Finau, while halfback is a choice between incumbent Finlay Christie or the experienced TJ Perenara, a player whose resilience has also impressed Hansen.
"He's got a competitive streak that meant he wanted to be back as an All Black and now the narrative is this - will you be a really good one?"
Perenara is certain to play a crucial role for the All Blacks this season, and both he and his coaches are confident he can rediscover his best international form.
Whatever side is rolled out, England know they’ll be up against it.
"It's an incredible challenge playing against this New Zealand team, who have such quality players," says coach Steve Borthwick. "There's no bigger challenge in rugby than playing New Zealand in New Zealand."
England haven't beaten the All Blacks in New Zealand since 2003. The old guard will be crucial to ensuring that doesn't change this year.
