They retained enough ball to claim a 57-23 win over Fiji at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday night.
It was not a win that came without its troubles, though.
Most notable among those was Fiji’s threat at the breakdown.
The visitors were exceptional in getting over the ball and forcing numerous turnovers and penalties.
While Fiji’s physicality may have been notable as well, All Black assistant coach Brad Mooar said getting to the breakdown first was a key message ahead of this weekend’s second test in Hamilton.
"There’s obviously been a fair bit of chat about stuff we’ve identified already," he said yesterday.
"Talking about physicality and whatnot, but the physicality was there — we were physical as well.
"I think it’s more about just winning the race — beating the opposition to the breakdown, making good decisions and execution as a ball carrier, supporters anticipation and getting into that breakdown.
"If I was playing us, I’d be pigging into that space as well, slowing that type of ball down and not giving us that quick ball to play off and show our skill set."
It took the All Blacks until the final 20 minutes to pull away, and early in the second half, the lead was at just 26-16.
However, that had not surprised the All Blacks.
They had expected a physical encounter, and Mooar noted the quality of the players in the Fijian team.
"These guys are outstanding athletes. You see the size of them," Mooar said.
"They’re big, athletic, well-conditioned players. A large number of them are top players for their clubs in Europe.
"They’re playing high-level footy and they’re playing in a test match. So they’re going to bring that physicality and intent, as do we. I’m sure they’re nursing some bruised bodies as well.
"I’m sure they’re looking forward to going again in Hamilton.
"But for us, there’s no surprises in that. It’s a test match, and everybody lifts their game for the All Blacks."
Second five-eighth David Havili agreed it was a tough encounter.
He was making his first appearance for the All Blacks in four years, and Mooar praised the way he played in the No12 jersey.
"A lot higher than Super Rugby, but they play with a lot of passion as well," Havili said.
"I thought at times we matched that as well. I enjoyed that. It was a good challenge for me."
Chiefs prop Aidan Ross has joined the squad as cover for Karl Tu’inukuafe, who has a left shoulder niggle.
Damien McKenzie dislocated the knuckle on his ring finger and is being treated.
Anton Lienert-Brown, Ardie Savea and Tupou Vaa’i were all tracking well as they recovered from injuries, Mooar said.
