All Blacks coach Ian Foster insists 'no panic' in camp ahead of Bok Tests

All Blacks head coach Ian Foster insisted on Tuesday there is no panic in their ranks before facing South Africa away, even with New Zealand's pride dented by their home series defeat to Ireland.

"We didn't get what we wanted out of that series, so to come together and put in the work again is the best thing for this group," Foster told reporters after the All Blacks trained in Wellington.

There has been a huge outcry in New Zealand, with some pundits calling for Foster to be sacked, following this month's 2-1 home series loss to Ireland.

"We're not panicking - I'm not sure about the rest of the people," Foster tersely replied when asked if the key to facing South Africa is not to panic.

"With all the emotions around when you lose a series, it's easy for people to scratch at you and poke holes. I get all that."

Back-to-back home defeats mean the All Blacks have just one win from their last five games.

Foster badly needs a victory to restore faith, starting with away Tests on 7 and 14 August against world champions South Africa in the Rugby Championship.

Although Foster and All Blacks captain Sam Cane kept their jobs, New Zealand Rugby reacted to the Irish defeats by sacking forwards coach John Plumtree and attack coach Brad Mooar.

Foster admitted it was "horrible" sacking the pair.

"They are good men, but my role is to do what is best for the team," he added.

"It's not a judgement on them, we just needed to make a change.

"We're going into the Rugby Championship to try to win, it's a big challenge, but what a great opportunity for us," said Foster.

Former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt, now a selector for New Zealand, has taken on a key analysis role and will work alongside Foster.

Jason Ryan has been brought in as the new All Blacks