All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has revealed that he will not be rushing back Dan Carter for next week's fixture against South Africa.
Carter was left out of New Zealand's victory over Argentina because of a calf strain.
"We have made the decision he won't be playing next week," said Hansen.
"The type of treatment he needs, it will take the pressure right off and give the calf the opportunity to come right. He's getting older isn't he and the more you play the game the more vulnerable you are to injury and he's got quite a few miles on the clock."
The All Blacks are currently unbeaten in the Rugby Championship.