A steep learning curve lies ahead for caretaker New Zealand Warriors coach Tony Kemp after his National Rugby League side was gutted by suspension.

The afterglow from the Warriors' gutsy 20-14 NRL win over Canberra wore off when prop Jerry Seuseu was rubbed out for seven games, winger Francis Meli five and lock Sione Faumuina for four after they opted for early guilty pleas on a total of five charges.

Parramatta pivot Michael Witt is the only player who will contest his charge at the National Rugby League judiciary Wednesday night after a spate of early guilty pleas including the Warriors trio.

Seuseu could have been facing a nine week suspension if he unsuccessfully contested his three charges - a reckless high tackle, careless high tackle and knee lifting.

Meli and Faumuina were both hit with dangerous throw charges.

Kemp was on cloud nine after defying the odds and racking up a rare Warriors win in his first game since replacing Daniel Anderson who resigned last week.

But he was brought shuddering back to earth thanks to the suspensions which have forced a major overhaul to the Warriors for the clash against the Wests Tigers at Christchurch on Sunday.

In the first side he has named since taking over, Kemp brought Epalahame Lauaki and Tevita Latu onto a five-man bench to be finalised later this week.

Utility back Tony Martin was not named due to a leg injury and remains a "week to week proposition".

Manu Vatuvei comes from the Bartercard Cup feeder club into the centres and Justin Murphy onto the wing for Faumuina and Meli respectively.

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