Johnson has a history of winding up New Zealand

The Kiwis now have security guards at their training ground ahead of their Tri-Nations encounter with Australia.

Asked about the claims, Australian attack coach Johnson said: "I think we have bigger things to worry about."

He wore a camouflage T-shirt which had "paranoia is curable" written on the back and "can I sit here" on the front.

Australia meet New Zealand in Brisbane on Saturday in their second encounter in the 2006 Tri-Nations, with the All Blacks having won the first 32-12 in New Zealand.

Johnson has a history of winding up New Zealand, both before and during matches.

Earlier this month New Zealand sought International Rugby Board clarification over the touch-line role played by Johnson during the opening Tri-Nations encounter in Christchurch.

New Zealand coaches Graham Henry and Steve Hansen are both familiar with Johnson as he was skills coach when they were in charge of Wales.

Probably his most famous wind-up came before the All Blacks' 2004 Test against Wales in Cardiff.

In the build-up to the match he described New Zealand as a "poxy little island" before apologising in typical fashion.

He said: "After an overheard conversation that was meant to be kept private, I do make an apology.

"I wasn't misquoted, I got it slightly wrong - in fact, it's two islands!"

Meanwhile, New Zealand centre Aaron Mauger has denied the All Blacks' new haka is offensive because it culminates in what appears to be a throat-slitting gesture.

The haka is the Maori dance performed by the All Blacks before Test matches.

Mauger said when the All Blacks drew their hands across their throats and grimaced they were actually making an ancient gesture to transfer energy into their bodies.

"It's pretty knackering doing the haka," he said.

"At the end of it you're pretty knackered and that is sort of revitalising the soul and the system before you get into the game."