All Blacks skipper Kieran Read admits the prospect of securing a record 18th straight Test win makes the third Bledisloe clash more than just another game.
The world champions will take on Australia at Eden Park on Saturday knowing a win will guarantee them a slice of rugby history, as well as a Bledisloe clean sweep.
It's not the first time the Kiwi side has been in this position, having blown opportunities to claim the record in 1969 and in 2014.
On that occasion, it was also the Wallabies who tripped the All Blacks up, snaring a 12-all draw in a dour contest in Sydney.
The All Blacks shied away from focusing on the record tilt two years ago but have embraced the challenge this time around, putting the streak in firm focus around camp.
Read, 30, told reporters on Friday his side were well aware of the importance of the match and were preparing accordingly.
"We've learned that it isn't just another game," Read said.
"When you've got something on the line, the opposition will raise their game and we've certainly got to raise ours.
"It's going to put a bit of extra spice into it."
The Wallabies have made a host of the changes for the clash, with Bernard Foley moving into the fly-half position for the benched Quade Cooper.
Reece Hodge moves from the wing to his favoured position of inside centre, while loose forward David Pocock returns from injury to start on the bench.
Read said the Australian loose forward trio of Dean Mumm, Michael Hooper and Lopeti Timani would give the side a much-needed dose of offensive thrust.
"They've got a bit more confidence and they're playing a better brand of footy as well," Read said.
"Their loose forwards are picked as strong ball carriers so it gives them a lot of go-forward, and we know how dangerous their backs are."
The Crusaders loose forward was also seen with bandages on his right hand, but told reporters it was no more than a niggle.
