Utility back Isaia Toeava will be out of rugby for up to six months, adding to the All Blacks' injury woes as the first Tests of the season loom next month.
Toeava has been in and out of the All Blacks lineup since his debut in 2005 but could have been a useful option for coach Graham Henry following news last week that inside centre Ma'a Nonu would be out for at least six weeks after rupturing a knee ligament.
Henry is due to name a 26-man squad on Sunday for home Tests next month against Ireland and Wales.
Toeava, who has played 26 Tests, will have surgery for a hip injury.
"They say it will take about four to six months to heal, and while it's pretty disappointing, it's best I get it fixed now," Toeava told the New Zealand Herald.
Prop Tony Woodcock and outside centre Richard Kahui are also suffering niggling injuries which could disrupt preparations for the June Tests.
Winger Sitiveni Sivivatu, locks Ali Williams and Jason Eaton, back Mike Delany and hooker Andrew Hore have already been ruled out with injury.
Lock Tom Donnelly and fullback Mils Muliana are returning from injuries that kept them out of most of the Super 14 and are short on match fitness.
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