The All Blacks had to work hard to claim a 38-31 victory over Japan in Tokyo as they kicked off their Northern Hemisphere tour.
Brodie Retallick was shown a red card in the 66th minute for dangerous play to set up a nervy finale for New Zealand at a sold-out National Stadium.
Kazuki Himeno scored a late try but it was not enough for a spirited Japanese side looking for their first-ever win over the All Blacks.
Hoskins Sotutu, Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece, Braydon Ennor and Retallick scored a try each.
The All Blacks next match is against Wales next Sunday at 3.15am.
In another international match result, the Wallabies edged Scotland 16-15.
