New Zealand's most famous rugby legend Jonah Lomu has been dropped from the All Blacks squad.

He was not named in the final 22 for Saturday's Tri-Nations series opener against defending champions Australia.

Lomu and Wellington team-mate Tana Umaga were notable absentees, with All Blacks coach John Mitchell preferring Caleb Ralph and Mark Robinson in the three-quarter line.

Lomu has scored 35 tries in 56 Test appearances for New Zealand.

He has been the most recognisable player in rugby since he burst onto the scene in the 1995 World Cup in South Africa, where he was voted player of the tournament.

Super 12 champions Canterbury will provide 13 players for the starting 15 for the match at Jade Stadium.

Wellington speedster Christian Cullen has been named at full-back to replace injured Crusaders full-back Leon McDonald.

New Zealand team: Christian Cullen, Doug Howlett, Mark Robinson, Caleb Ralph, Aaron Mauger, Andrew Mehrtens, Justin Marshall; Scott Robertson, Richard McCaw, Chris Jack, Norm Maxwell, Reuben Thorne (captain), Greg Somerville, Mark Hammett, David Hewett. Reserves: Ben Blair, Daryl Gibson, Byron Kelleher, Taine Randell, Simon Maling, Joe McDonnell, Tom Willis.