The All Blacks say while Ireland has improved in recent years on the international stage, they've always considered the European giant a "top tier" opponent.
All Blacks veterans Ryan Crotty and Dane Coles were asked by local media ahead of this weekend's Test in Dublin if they thought the perception of Ireland had changed in recent years, with the hosts now ranked second in the world.
Crotty said they've improved greatly in the last "six or seven years".
"They're just an outstanding rugby side, I don't think we've ever not seen them in that light, they've always been a top tier nation.
"There's a lot of respect there for them."
Coles also noted the impact he feels Kiwi coach Joe Schmidt has had on the side.
"They've definitely got a more all-round game - they're not the classic team that just do scrums and drives. Their skillsets is huge."
The All Blacks and Ireland square off at Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Sunday at 8am NZT.
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