The All Blacks upped the gears on their World Cup preparations, taking a step forward in their execution while they continued to develop a high-pace game plan with a 39-18 win over Argentina on Friday.

The victory in the Rugby Championship opener was a massive leap from a scrappy 25-16 win over Samoa in Apia though it indicated Steve Hansen's side still have a lot of work to do if they are to defend the World Cup in two months.

Captain Richie McCaw, Ma'a Nonu, Charles Piutau, ­Kieran Read and debutant Codie Taylor all scored tries while flyhalf Dan Carter, who appeared more confident at challenging the defensive line, slotted 14 points from the boot.