Barrett not underestimating Argentina

New Plymouth - All Blacks flyhalf Beauden Barrett expects a tough challenge from Argentina when the sides face off in New Plymouth on Saturday.

Barrett said he had been keeping an eye on los Pumas in their games against South Africa and noted they had been playing some good rugby although they lost both those Tests.

"They're a top quality side, they bring plenty of physicality, plenty of skill, a strong off-loading game so we're expecting a strong team on Saturday," he told the All Blacks' official website.

"We have a fair idea of what they are going to bring on Saturday but we can only assume and just wait and see." 

At the same time the All Blacks hadn't been happy with their play in the early stages against Australia and wanted to improve their core roles and skill execution. 

"We can't go into a hole with our attacking game when we make two defensive errors," added Barrett. 

"It's about expressing ourselves and identifying that on the field and not having to shut up shop. We're encouraged to keep playing footy and identify what exactly is going wrong," he said.

Barrett had extra challenges to cope with in being back on home turf. It will be the second Test Barrett has played in New Plymouth but he was concentrating on getting his preparation right and having the necessary balance. 

"You have to fend a few people off," he said. 

"I would like to see everyone in the 'naki, friends and family come first and whilst it's great and I get a lot of energy off the people here, they're great supporters, I have to focus on playing a bit of footy too."