There are eight changes to the mainly second-string starting XV that was fielded against Argentina last week as New Zealand face the Springboks for the 100th time.

The All Blacks will seal a 12th title in the southern hemisphere championship with a match to spare if they secure victory this weekend.

"The whole team is excited at what lies ahead this weekend," Foster said.

"The group is working hard, we have been building our performances and we've put ourselves in a great position to win the Rugby Championship and that's really exciting for the team.

"The fact that it is against South Africa is pretty special."

Scott Barrett and Brodie Retallick come back into the second row for the match at North Queensland Stadium in Townsville, while blindside flanker Akira Ioane and No.8 Luke Jacobson return to join skipper Ardie Savea in the back row.

Hooker Codie Taylor will pack down with props Nepo Laulala and Joe Moody in an experienced front row for what is expected to be a titanic forward battle against the world champions.

Beauden Barrett has been paired with halfback TJ Perenara to lead a backline featuring Rieko Ioane and David Havili in the centres and Will Jordan and George Bridge on the wings.

The third Barrett brother in the side, fullback Jordie, edged out Damian McKenzie to complete a back three which will be expected to deal with a barrage of tactical kicking from the Springboks.

Foster's selection likely sets up a stark contrast in styles between the All Blacks and Springboks.

The team named Thursday is equipped to play a fast-paced style while the Springboks will continue to pursue their slow and deliberate game plan, accentuating kicking and mauling but with little backline adventure.

"For us, as a team, we're trying to zone in on what we want to do in this game," Foster said.

New Zealand: Jordie Barrett, Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, David Havili, George Bridge, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara, Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea (capt), Akira Ioane, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Nepo Laulala, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody. Res: Samisoni Taukei'aho, Karl Tu'inukuafe, Ofa Tuungafasi, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ethan Blackadder, Brad Weber, Damian McKenzie, Quinn Tupaea.

with AP

Australian Associated Press