One of the country's top restaurants has been booked out for an entire month during the Rugby World Cup.

Perhaps only the French could endure so roller-coaster a ride in their rugby team's fortunes these past 12 months.

The debate rages on across France. Just 10 months before the Rugby World Cup, is the national team a lost cause?

No question - the All Blacks kept their best for last on this tour.

It was a long wait, but it was worth it as the All Blacks finally roared into gear to hammer France today.

Graham Henry refutes the claim the All Blacks showed France no respect prior to the Dunedin test.

Will it be all white on the night, or will the cunning French give the All Blacks some real rugby blues?

Keeping his All Blacks fresh and alert after a marathon rugby season is the major concern for coach Graham Henry after he named a full-strength side to face France.

The World Cup quarter final loss in Cardiff is driving the All Blacks in Marseille, writes NZPA's Mark Geenty.