Aaron Smith will bolster the All Blacks' options in Dublin after answering the call for a late call-up.
The 32-year-old scrum-half earned his 101st Test cap in the August 14 clash with Australia but had decided to sit out New Zealand's northern hemisphere tour following the birth of his son Leo.
However he boarded a flight during the night to head to Ireland ahead of Saturday's clash at the Aviva Stadium.
Smith has travelled as injury cover for Brad Weber, who suffered a head knock against Italy last Saturday in Rome - and he could feature in the final two Tests of the tour against Ireland and France.
"It all happened very quickly and now I'm two hours from jumping on the plane to join the boys in Ireland," Smith admitted.
"I've very excited to come back and join the boys - two very big games for the lads, which is really exciting to be part of.
"I'm just looking to try and help where I can, and bring a bit of energy."
Smith also explained that his wife Teagan gave her blessing for him to make the trip at such short notice.
He smiled, "It was a pretty short conversation. She was like, 'Go, this is a great opportunity for you’.
"I’m going over with no expectations of playing, but I’ll try to do my best to impact where I can."
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
