The two southern neighbours clash in Christchurch on Saturday in what is shaping as something of a season-defining fixture.
The Crusaders sit top of the table and have just equalled a record for the franchise with 13 wins in a row.
But Crusaders assistant coach Leon MacDonald is wary of the team from south of the Waitaki River which has itself won nine games on the trot.
Something has to give and MacDonald believes the Highlanders will not lack in preparation.
``They have the edge on us, as they have been pretty much been playing the same teams as us after us, so get to watch us every week. Knowing Browny [Highlanders coach Tony Brown] and his crew, they will be looking for some special moves,'' MacDonald said at a press conference in Christchurch yesterday.
``They will be smiling away down in Dunedin. They have been flying under the radar and have won nine on the trot. They'll be very excited about this challenge, as well.
``They do what they do and they do it very well. They have world-class players, especially in their backline. There is a ton of talent in their team.''
In the sides' first meeting this year, the Crusaders came back from a 27-6 deficit to win 30-27, although the Highlanders were hampered due to a yellow card to centre Malakai Fekitoa.
That game was only the second match of the season and both sides have come a long way since.
MacDonald said the Crusaders had gained confidence from the winning run and that helped the team play well.
The Red and Blacks have Matt Todd and Ryan Crotty training this week but whether the All Black duo play on Saturday is still up in the air.
Both are getting over concussion and whether they start on Saturday will be decided later in the week.
Loose forward Pate Samu is no chance, as he injured his ankle last Saturday night against the Rebels in Melbourne.
Lock Scott Barrett is also unlikely to play, as he continues to recover from knee and ankle injuries.
Israel Dagg played on the wing against the Rebels in his comeback from injury but had a quiet game. With David Havili in such hot form it is hard to see how Dagg can start at the back on Saturday.
MacDonald said no pressure had been put on the franchise by the All Black selectors to put Dagg at the back on Saturday, but he did add Dagg did everything asked of him against the Rebels.
One thing strange for players in the game is the fact it is being played in the afternoon.
With the British and Irish Lions opening their tour in Whangarei on Saturday night, the match in Christchurch will kick off at 2.35pm.
MacDonald said players were excited to play with the sun on their backs.
``It's just like the old days, with a daytime kick-off. Everyone is really excited. Normally, it means a lot of points, a lot of tries. If the sun comes out, you should expect a good game.''