The All Blacks, featuring six debutants, unleashed their attack against Fiji in San Diego, securing a commanding 47-5 victory in their lone test match on Friday.
New Zealand, enjoying the freedom of a warm California evening following tough home victories over England, led 26-5 by halftime. Fly-half Damian McKenzie was pivotal, converting six out of seven attempts and guiding the backs to capitalize on possession dominance and quick ball from the forwards.
Despite Fiji limiting them to their lowest score in their eight test encounters, with previous meetings averaging 69-12 to the All Blacks, New Zealand Coach Scott Robertson achieved his goal of a third straight win since taking charge and integrating new players.
With significant lineup changes — including 11 alterations from their win over England — New Zealand saw standout performances from newcomers like Billy Proctor. Five more debutants, including Noah Hotham and Wallace Sititi, made impacts off the bench.
Fiji, adjusting with alterations in their backline, responded with a try from Viliami Botitu after early scores from Caleb Clarke and Cortez Ratima. New Zealand’s Sevu Reece and forwards Ethan De Groot and George Bell added second-half tries to secure the comprehensive victory.
Both teams faced scrum-half injuries in the first half, highlighting potential concerns for the All Blacks ahead of their next test against Argentina in the Rugby Championship on August 10.