Wallabies, Springboks, and Lions beware. For the first time in Classic history the All Blacks could compromise their "pass and run" principles and kick points.

Former New Zealand stalwart Andy Haden reckons time is due for New Zealand, winners in seven of the first eight years of the tournament, to end their barren run and reassert their position as top dogs.

"We used to be so dominant at the Classic people got bored with us," said the manager Haden, whose All Blacks take on France tomorrow. "Now they're just annoyed with us because we haven't won it for so long."

The Kiwis have always refused to kick either penalties or conversions during the week-long rugby festival. At the 2004 edition they even lobbied for there to be no penalties kicked during the entire competition to encourage more tries and excitement.

But Haden's men, who previous steadfastness even extended to not kicking post-try conversions, admits the policy has cost them victories in recent years at the Classic.

"The All Blacks have always viewed the Classic as a running and passing game and have never kicked points," he said. "That's probably cost us final appearances and for the first time in 20 years you may see that change with us kicking points."

Haden, who won 41 caps for New Zealand as a lock forward, expects the opposition to be fitter, hungrier and better prepared than ever before. But while he encourages the Classic's evolution, he concedes he harks back to bygone days when socialising between the players was more prevalent. "We expect the other teams to be better prepared, fitter, and younger," he said. "That's the way the Classic has been going in recent years. I suppose in terms of the contest that's a positive, but I think perhaps a line should be drawn on age.

"The Classic has changed in recent times and maybe it was more sociable for the players in the past. But times are changing and we shouldn't judge or condemn.

"We've come out here to enjoy ourselves, both on and off the field, and we will certainly be entering into the spirit of the tournament.

"Importantly, the spectators do get more bang for their buck than ever before these days."

Included in the All Blacks' roster is prop Gordon Slater and hooker Bruce Hemara who both won three caps, as well as George Leaupepe, who amassed 30 caps for Western Samoa.

In terms of international appearances New Zealand compare unfavourably with some of their rivals, but Haden is confident of a good showing.

"We don't have too many caps in the dressing room but I'm happy with the guys we've got - we certainly have a good team for the Classic golf tournament!"

France and the All Blacks meet at the National Sports Centre's North Field, Frog Lane, at 3.45 p.m. tomorrow after the opening match, featuring Argentina and Australia, at 2 p.m.