They will be without four All Blacks for their clash against the Reds in Brisbane, while a further two will start from the bench.
Josh McKay will make his debut at fullback in place of Ben Smith, while Marino Mikaeke Tu'u replaces Luke Whitelock to make his first start at No8.
Ash Dixon starts at hooker and will captain the side, with Greg Pleasants-Tate in the reserves while Liam Coltman is rested.
New All Black Shannon Frizell also has the week off, with James Lentjes filling the No6 jersey while Dillon Hunt will pack down on the openside flank.
Kayne Hammington is set to start at halfback, while Tevita Li comes back into the starting line-up to replace Tevita Nabura.
Richard Buckman will make his long awaited return from injury from the bench, as will Liam Squire.
Aaron Smith will also be an option to bring impact in the second half.
Highlanders to play the Reds:
Josh McKay, Waisake Naholo, Rob Thompson, Tei Walden, Tevita Li, Lima Sopoaga, Kayne Hammington, Marino Mikaele Tu'u, Dillon Hunt, James Lentjes, Tom Franklin, Jackson Hemopo, Tyrel Lomax, Ash Dixon (c), Daniel Lienert-Brown. Reserves: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Aki Seiuli, Kalolo Tuiloma, Josh Dickson, Liam Squire, Aaron Smith, Josh Ioane, Richard Buckman.