Hosea Gear recalled as New Zealand aim for sixth successive Rugby Championship win against South Africa

Hosea Gear: Has been recalled by the All Blacks

New Zealand have recalled Hosea Gear for Saturday's final Rugby Championship clash with South Africa in Johannesburg.

Gear has been preferred on the wing to Julian Savea, who scored two tries in last weekend's 54-15 win over Argentina.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has made just one other change from the team that clinched the Rugby Championship title in La Plata, lock Brodie Retallick replacing Luke Romano.

Hansen has resisted making wholesale changes to his starting line-up after South Africa put their poor recent form behind them to record a 31-8 victory against Australia in their penultimate match.

However, he has tinkered with his replacements with prop Ben Franks, loose forward Adam Thomson and utility back Tamati Ellison all named on the bench.

"We are in no doubt how big the challenge is for the team this weekend but it is one we are looking forward to as it will be a real test of our resolve and character," said Hansen.

"South Africa are coming off a big win against Australia and will be playing in front of their home crowd at Soweto so it's going to be a huge test match."

New Zealand: Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Hosea Gear, Dan Carter, Aaron Smith; Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (captain), Liam Messam, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock.

Replacements: Keven Mealamu, Ben Franks, Luke Romano, Adam Thomson, Piri Weepu, Aaron Cruden, Tamati Ellison.