The All Blacks flew out to England last night to defend the Rugby World Cup, and Radio New Zealand's John Campbell joined the crowd at Auckland airport to see them off.
All Black centre Conrad Smith told Campbell the team were aware of how tough it was going to be and that there were some very good sides the All Blacks will have to beat to take the title.
Meanwhile, veteran hooker Kevan Mealamu said the All Blacks were excited about the challenge.
"It's time to get in and get stuck into the competition," he said.
There was plenty of confidence in the crowd of well-wishers who farewelled the team last night, with Richie McCaw and Dan Carter standing out as the younger fans' favourite players.
