After announcing his 36-man touring team, coach Scott Robertson said the Tests against Japan, England, Ireland, France and Italy are critical.
"Every Test match is critical. Every time we play one of these games it's the biggest game in the year for all these teams. The northern tour is critical for us. We want to keep our momentum going."
Finishing opportunities remained at the top of the team's required development list. They had played some good rugby but now needed to turn the good into great and finish the job.
"It's exciting, that's why you play footy. There are big occasions on the big stage, and you see how people step up. You create an environment so the guys go and look forward to the opportunity and respect our jersey with great performances. That's our focus.
Robertson said halfback Cameron Roigard, who has recovered from his knee injury, played well in his return for Counties Manukau at the weekend, scoring two tries in their win.
"He was straight into it and showed what a hell of an athlete he is. He was impressed with his instinctive play and quality of pass, took a couple of opportunities, and scored a few tries. He's some competitor.
"We're pleased, we know how hard he's worked. It's a competitive position, halfback, it's one of the tougher positions to pick."
Robertson confirmed Roigard will play in the Bunnings NPC quarterfinals over the weekend, along with several others in the side.
They will include prop Fletcher Newell and fullback Ruben Love, while second five-eighths Jordie Barrett will be ready to play the Japan Test.
The decision to include flanker Sam Cane and halfback TJ Perenara involved deep conversations.
"It's always a balance between having experience, guys that are Test fit, the balance of leadership and what it takes to win up north. When you looked at it, they've got a lot of those qualities. They were in a Test team playing good footy."
They were also seen as invaluable in helping younger players build for the side's future.
"Cam's only played a handful of Test matches, so has Cortez – TJ gives us that balance."
Back-up will also be available with Finlay Christie and Noah Hotham included in the All Blacks XV.
There was also the ability to give players game time with the All Blacks XV, which will be touring around the same time.
"The squad is 36, so not all 36 are playing every weekend, and both teams are on tour, and it is a great opportunity for them to learn to play some quality rugby in the north."