New Zealand's forward pack delivered one of their best performances since the current coaching staff took over in Saturday's 39-10 belting of Australia in the Tri-Nations, said All Blacks assistant Steve Hansen.

The New Zealand forward pack was transformed from the one that surrendered to Australia in Sydney last month, with the return of inspirational captain Richie McCaw bringing more aggression and accuracy. The All Blacks dominated set pieces and at the breakdown.

Assistant coach Hansen said the display from the pack was one of the best since the current coaching team took control following the 2003 World Cup.

"The test match in Wellington against the Springboks was good, and France in 2004 was pretty good, so it would be in one of the top three or four performances," Hansen said.

"Probably the best thing is that we were under a lot of pressure, and it was a group of young people as well," Hansen said. "For those guys to experience that and come through on the other side I think is really good for them."

The All Blacks lineout, often a source of problems in the past few years, won nine out of 10 on their own throw while also securing half of the Wallabies' 16 lineouts.

While the win was satisfying, Hansen said the squad was trying not to get carried away ahead of away games against Australia and South Africa.

Hansen said South Africa, despite sitting last on the table, was best placed for the remainder of the competition with three home games left.

"We're in charge of our own destiny, if we can win the remaining games then we've got a big show," Hansen said.