Brodie Retallick. Photo Getty
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen confirmed Retallick, who was rested for this morning's test against Argentina, would not join them for the Springboks test this weekend as planned.
"Brodie and his wife Niki have lost their baby boy prematurely, which is incredibly sad news. We're really feeling for them at this sad time and our thoughts are with them and their families," Hansen said in a statement.
"As a result, Brodie will stay home with Niki and rejoin the team when the time is right."
Meanwhile, Sam Cane, Ryan Crotty, Lima Sopoaga, Liam Squire and Sam Whitelock have arrived in South Africa.
Vaea Fifita, Ngani Laumape, Waisake Naholo, Luke Romano and Ardie Savea will return to New Zealand.