Christchurch will host the Kiwis' only Rugby League World Cup match in New Zealand, with a sell-out crowd expected for the Pool A clash.
New Zealand face the Cook Islands after losing to Australia by two points in Sydney.
Despite that defeat, the Kiwis enter as overwhelming favourites against a side beaten 40-12 by Fiji in Newcastle.
The teams last met 13 years ago, when New Zealand won 50-0.
Coach Stacey Jones said his players had found positives in the loss to Australia.
"Obviously, we were disappointed in the result," the Kiwis coach said.
"There was lots of stuff that we liked, but there were moments that hurt us. We take the lessons from it and build on it for this week."
Jones said the team respected the Cook Islands despite their previous result against New Zealand.
"We watched the Cook Islands play on the weekend and they play with a lot of passion and pride," Jones said.
"They're a proud nation and we're really close to them. We got to rub shoulders with them the other day, but it's a Test match."
Jones said the team had received a warm welcome in Christchurch and was keen to perform for local supporters.
"The whole week's been outstanding," Jones said.
"A privilege for the Kiwis to come here and play in a sell-out crowd. We only get one game in the World Cup in New Zealand and it's in Christchurch.
"The people here have been so accommodating to us. The vibe around the city is pretty good, pretty electric."