KEY POINTS:
The Millennium Stadium in Cardiff may be one of the best arenas in the world to watch rugby but the park's surface compromises players' skills.
During Wales' internationals at the venue involving the Wallabies, Pacific Islanders and Canada, the turf cut up noticeably, especially during scrums.
If that pattern is repeated on Sunday, any set-piece advantage the All Blacks contemplate against Wales may be diminished.
"The ground conditions are not ideal," coach Graham Henry said.
In the last test against France, the All Black scrum was hampered by referee Chris White's inability to deal with the Tricolores collapsing or folding in and this week the conditions might conspire against the tourists.
There are also reservations from those who watch the game in Britain about the desire of Sunday's referee, Dave Pearson, to let any game flow. He has a reputation for being pedantic.
Henry tried to make light of the dodgy ground surface, saying he had enough problems without being a groundsman as well.
"I think it will have some effect on the footing," said Henry, noting his forwards would all wear the maximum 18mm sprigs.
Stadium chief executive Paul Sergeant has recognised the problem but also defended the condition of the ground as the best it has been for pre-Christmas internationals.
The grass is relaid several times a year because of the wear and tear and the lack of sunlight. Officials are considering installing ultraviolet lamps to help grass growth.
But the familiar problem remains. The roof will be closed this week to avoid rainfall but it does nothing for the health of the ground.
In six weeks, including this weekend, the ground will have hosted four rugby tests, a Heineken Cup game, two soccer games and a training session for each of those sides. According to Sergeant that was the equivalent of 21 games in six weeks.
In previous All Black visits it has been standard practice to see ground staff forking divots back into place.
The problems were not lost on the All Blacks, who watched coverage of Wales' 61-26 victory against Canada last week.
"Even though the field is a bit of a wreck, they [Wales] are still moving the ball around," midfielder Luke McAlister said.
The All Blacks will take a similar attitude into the test but they may also adapt their strategies to allow for the soft surface.
