They are the All Blacks' toughest foe. Ever since the two sides first clashed - in Dunedin, at Carisbrook in 1921 - encounters between the All Blacks and Springboks have always been dogged and uncompromising.
Otago Boys' have fallen at the final hurdle in their quest to be national champions, going down 31-5 to St Kentigern College in Auckland today.
A game of rugby is made up of many different things. Steve Hepburn looks at three areas where tomorrow night's test will be won or lost.
Mistakes - they have made a few, and Springbok captain Jean de Villiers says his players must learn from them quickly or be exposed.
After playing in the wind and rain last week, you would think Conrad Smith would welcome a dry pitch and no massive wind gusts.
Some players just fit the stereotype. Liam Coltman - pig hunter, tough bloke, man of few words, big crazy beard. Front-rower, for sure.
Steve Hansen is nearly a year into his new job as All Black head coach. After an eight-year apprenticeship, he talks to rugby writer Steve Hepburn about how his side is travelling.
Highlanders halfback Aaron Smith was dumped from the All Black starting team because of a breach of team protocol.
The battle to fill some big boots appears to be falling the way of Liam Messam.
The rivalry between the Springboks and the All Blacks was suspended for more than 10 years due to political issues. But in 1992, with political change sweeping South Africa, sporting relations between the nations resumed. Steve Hepburn looks at the first test between the two countries after more than a decade apart.
Kieran Read has experienced a whirlwind seven days and is looking forward to getting home.
Piri Weepu knows he has been given a chance, and he intends to make the most of it.
Every day, Martin Snedden gets people congratulating him on the success of last year's Rugby World Cup.
Piri Weepu will make his first start of the year for the All Blacks when the side takes on the Springboks at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday night.
A desire to play in the next World Cup is a big part of the reason Tony Woodcock has signed for the Highlanders.
There was some reminiscing for Richie and Ryan yesterday.
New All Blacks' first five-eighth Beauden Barrett is just like any excited youngster going to the test on Saturday.
Coach Jamie Joseph says Jamie Mackintosh is still a vital component of the Highlanders.
All Blacks coach Ian Foster is expecting nothing less than an explosive Springboks side in Dunedin on Saturday night.
Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph says the commitment shown by his new coaching team proves they are in boots and all for their new franchise.
