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France are likely to be a different proposition from the team which toured New Zealand in 2007, according to All Blacks forwards coach Steve Hansen.

The French have had a much better build-up this time than they did two years ago and should pose several problems for New Zealand in the first Test in Carisbrook on Saturday night.

"They've seen we've got a few injuries and feel they've got a show and have brought the best side they can possibly bring," said Hansen (pictured).

"I think the rugby public, the fans and the players and we as coaches want to play against the best teams we can and for us it is going to be a great challenge.

"Some guys are going to have to stand up and prove that they are worthy All Blacks.

"It's a test of your character, it's a test of your playing skills and it's a test of you as a team and how tight you become together and play."

Hansen added that everyone knew the importance of the game because how players performed would dictate whether they were given another chance.

Head coach Graham Henry said the All Blacks' preparation had been 85 per cent about themselves. He was thankful the coaches had two weeks to prepare for the series compared with one week last year.

But he said he had watched the French Six Nations games and the semi-finals and final of the Top 14 to 'get a feel for what they are about'.

Hansen said that was about all that could be done in terms of assessing what the French might offer.

PA Sport