Tough conditions are forecast for the Wallabies as they attempt to get their Bledisloe Cup and Tri-Nations series off to a bright start by recording their first win in Auckland in 23 years.

Rain is expected for Saturday's Eden Park clash, a factor generally considered to favour the physical but potentially less cohesive All Blacks at their fortress.

The conditions could stifle Australia's plans to play at pace, while a slower game would also mean the sides' kicking games would be decisive.

The battle between rival flankers Richie McCaw and Wallabies Test centurion George Smith has already taken centre stage in the lead-up to the match.

"I guess over the years the breakdown area has been a key component of the game and Richie coming back will I'm sure be a big influence on their team," Smith said on Friday.

McCaw, meanwhile, is hoping to restrict the contribution of Smith.

"How we get to operate often depends on what happens with the whole forward pack really and how much rope we get to operate with," he said.

"(The battle with Smith is) important but it's no different to always, and playing against a guy like George Smith, you've got to try and eliminate his influence on the game and that's what we always try to do."

Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock has promised an end to his side's second half fade-outs, saying they will "keep on keeping on".

"You can't be happy with just having a lead, you've got to back yourself for the full 80," he said.

Australia need to win at least one of their two games in New Zealand during the four-match Bledisloe Cup series to reclaim the coveted trophy for the first time since 2002.

They also face the All Blacks in Wellington on September 19.

Saturday's Test begins at 5.30pm (AEST).

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