The All Blacks introduced the Kapa O Pango haka last August

New Zealand changed their pre-match ritual last August. In Maori culture, the gesture signifies the transfer of energy into a person's body.

"We are continually talking about setting an example to young players.

"Throat-slitting probably doesn't send a good message," Connolly said ahead of Saturday's match against New Zealand.

"Young sportsmen these days copy the Wallabies, they copy the All Blacks and I'd hate to think it led to a tragic consequence down the road."

Connolly added that he had no problem with the traditional Ka Mate haka previously used by the All Blacks.

It's an over-reaction - it's a sporting contest All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith

But he insisted the current Kapa O Pango haka needed to be looked at because of the apparent throat-slitting gesture.

Asked if the gesture could be seen as offensive, New Zealand assistant coach Wayne Smith replied: "Offensive to who?

"It's not actually a throat-cutting gesture," he added, although he admitted it could be perceived that way.

"It's been reviewed pretty thoroughly by the (NZ Rugby) Board from outside the team and everyone has been comfortable with it at this stage."

Asked if the gesture could be seen as inciting violence off the field, Smith said: "It's an over-reaction. It's a sporting contest.

"Can someone being rucked on the field legitimately incite violence outside of the game, can a strong tackle incite violence outside the game?

"It's a sporting contest and you need to put it into context."