Parramatta centre Brad Takairangi is set to make his Kiwis debut when New Zealand open their Rugby League World Cup campaign against Samoa in Auckland.

Takairangi, who has been named to start the match at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday, is one of five newcomers in a 21-strong squad that coach David Kidwell has named.

The others, all included on an extended bench, are Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Isaac Liu, Danny Levi and Addin Fonua-Blake.

Takairangi will partner Gerard Beale in the centres, while Kidwell has paired Kodi Nikorima and Shaun Johnson in the halves.

Veteran utility Thomas Leuluai has been named at hooker.

In the front row, Martin Taupau is joined by skipper Adam Blair, while the back row comprises Simon Mannering, Joseph Tapine and Kenny Bromwich.

New Zealand: Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Gerard Beale, Brad Takairangi, Jordan Rapana, Kodi Nikorima, Shaun Johnson, Marty Taupau, Thomas Leuluai, Adam Blair (captain), Kenny Bromwich, Joseph Tapine, Simon Mannering.

Interchange: Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Russell Packer, Isaac Liu, Danny Levi, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Peta Hiku, Te Maire Martin, Addin Fonua-Blake.