Lock Anthony Boric will debut for the All Blacks on Saturday when he replaces the suspended Brad Thorn for the second Tri-Nations test against South Africa.
In the only other change from the 19-8 win over the Springboks last weekend, coach Graham Henry has opted to bring back tighthead prop John Afoa in place of 60-test veteran Greg Somerville.
Afoa was injured against Ireland a month ago and has not featured since, while Thorn has been banned for one game after his lifting tackle on South African captain John Smit, which left the latter with a groin injury.
Henry admits he Thorn will be difficult to replace but has faith in Boric after two encouraging reserve bench appearances against England.
"Brad Thorn's an experienced footballer who has played a lot of big-time sport who can handle the occasion and give us a physical presence. All of those things you're going to miss," Henry said.
"But the other fella (Boric) comes in fresh, excited, good lineout player, good athlete.
"He's done everything he can... so he's just waiting to get the opportunity. I'm sure he will nail it."
Uncapped Chiefs lock Kevin O'Neill is promoted to the reserve bench.
"We showed a lot of guts last week and we are very proud of that, but we want to improve technically," Henry said. "We expect the Springboks will lift their performance and we'll need to be better if we are to win."
Henry said Afoa deserved to come back into the starting side after his efforts during the Super 14.
"John showed some very good form before his injury and he's been waiting patiently for his knee to come right and to get back on the field," Henry said.
Fullback Mils Muliaina will break Christian Cullen's New Zealand record at fullback when he starts his 46th test in the number 15 jersey.
New Zealand: Mils Muliaina, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Rudi Wulf, Dan Carter, Andy Ellis, Jerome Kaino, Rodney So'oialo (captain), Adam Thomson, Ali Willliams, Anthony Boric, John Afoa, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: Keven Mealamu, Neemia Tialata, Kevin O'Neill, Sione Lauaki, Jimmy Cowan, Stephen Donald, Leon MacDonald
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