Nine players which started last year's final against the Hurricanes have been named to start, while two others - Brendon Edmonds and Alex Ainley - are on the bench.
Midfielder Teihorangi Walden will make his Super rugby debut when he runs on to Eden Park in the No 12 jersey.
He appears to have at least temporarily surpassed former Crusaders midfielder Rob Thompson in the pecking order, and will look to take the opportunity opened up by the loss of the injured Richard Buckman (shoulder).
Matt Faddes, who had a fine season for Otago in last year's national provincial competition, is also in line to make his debut. He has been named on the bench and will provide midfield and outside back cover.
Lock Mark Reddish (shoulder) and pivot Marty Banks (hamstring) were unavailable for selection due to injury.
Hayden Parker, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury, will provide cover for Sopoaga off the bench.
TEAMS
Highlanders: Ben Smith (co-captain), Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Teihorangi Walden, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Liam Squire, Shane Christie (co-captain), Elliot Dixon, Joe Wheeler, Tom Franklin, Josh Hohneck, Liam Coltman, Daniel Leinert-Brown.
Reserves: Ash Dixon, Brendon Edmonds, Ross Geldenhuys, Alex Ainley, Dan Pryor, Fumiaki Tanaka, Hayden Parker, Matt Faddes.
Blues: Lolagi Visinia , Melani Nanai, Male Sa'u, George Moala, Tevita Li, Ihaia West, Bryn Hall, Steven Luatua, Blake Gibson, Joe Edwards, Josh Bekhuis, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sione Mafileo, James Parsons (captain), Ofa Tu'ungafasi.
Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Namatahi Waa, Charlie Faumuina, Akira Ioane, Kara Pryor, Billy Guyton, Matt McGahan, Rene Ranger.
