As the country feels a renewed sense of optimism over the All Blacks' future, the team's new skipper is drawing inspiration from the past.
By Jonty Dine of RNZ
After a turbulent two years, the All Blacks are looking to regain some of their lost aura, and Ardie Savea is taking lessons from some of the greatest to wear the jersey to help re-establish the dynasty.
"I think of the past leaders and past captains that have had a huge impact on me, and it's making me feel seen, it's given me space to lead, it's given me opportunities to be able to just be my authentic self."
The honour of leading the side is not lost on Savea.
"Whenever I do get that privilege, I don't take it lightly. I know it brings the best out of me."
The superstar loose forward said he is looking to create quality on and off the field.
"It's just around encouraging, empowering my teammates and the people within this legacy to be better - mainly better men and hopefully better players from it."
Positivity has been the buzzword coming from camp this week, as new coach Dave Rennie looks to bring back the All Black flair.
"He wants us to play optimistic, but also with a bit of brutality, and he's big on effort - the rock solid foundations that we need to go out there and perform."
The test is the first in Christchurch in four years, and Savea said the city deserved the occasion to be special.
"This team's got an opportunity for this country and for the people," he said. "I've been around the city this week and just seeing it alive.
"It's such a blessing to see, especially what happened years ago. It's my first time being able to play in this stadium, so I'm really looking forward to it."
After growing up in a poor but tight-knit community, Savea said he had long had the tools for leadership.
"Serving my parents and serving the people around me, that's the thing that I feel like I can do in this team, just to serve my players and the people and the management and, yeah, go from there."
Asked his advice for young kids growing up in similar circumstances, Savea showed again why Rennie made a wise choice for his captain.
"Believe in yourself, be the light. Everyone in this, every kid, every person that's standing in this circle has got something special in themselves, so figure what that is for you and shine your light.
"In a room of darkness, shine your light. People that say you can't, you can, so believe in yourself."
SHARE ME