The All Blacks would have wanted to start the Rugby World Cup with an emphatic statement but a question mark was the best they could manage in a scratchy 41-10 win over Tonga in Auckland.
They started well, scoring four tries to lead 29-3 at half-time at Eden Park, but could add only two in the second spell as Tonga's defence tightened.
The Tongans also camped inside the All Blacks' 22 late in the second spell and a series of scrums ended with a try to replacement prop Alisona Taumalolo.
The All Blacks head coach Graham Henry gave his players a pass mark, but by only six or so, saying while they scored some good tries, got maximum points and defended well they made too many mistakes and gave away too many penalities.
And captain Richie McCaw admits they got frustrated after not finishing off two or three opportunitries to score just after half-time, but the Tongans defended well.
Right wing Richard Kahui and fullback Israel Dagg scored two tries each and the others went to second-five Ma'a Nonu and flanker Jerome Kaino.
