The Chiefs host the resurgent Crusaders in Hamilton on Friday night, followed by the Hurricanes meeting the calamitous Blues in Wellington the following evening.
It goes without saying all involved should be committed to playing at maximum revs, although given the defensive output from the Blues during their four consecutive defeats, it could be argued they've mislaid the precious literature on this topic.
There will be no chance for Rennie, who is set to return to New Zealand after guiding the Kobe Kobelco Steelers to a national club title in Japan, to take extended leave and bake on a beach.
The real graft is about to begin.
Rennie will reveal his 34-man All Blacks squad for the Nations Championship tests against France, Italy and Ireland in New Zealand on July 22.
NZ Rugby chief executive officer Steve Lancaster said on Monday that Rennie had been up to his gills in work as he juggled his commitments.
When Steve Hansen was coaching the All Blacks he acknowledged many punters and fans could pick the bulk of a national squad. The more difficult part was filling the last couple of spots on the roster, and that's when the selectors earn their coin.
The domestic tests in July are the tip of the iceberg.
Rennie will later name a 44-man roster for the seven-match tour of South Africa.
The Chiefs will host the defending champion Crusaders team at 7.05pm Friday, while the Hurricanes will take on the Blues at 7.05pm Saturday.
Source: stuff.co.nz
