The Caribbean side has slipped down the world rankings since the last time it played a test in Dunedin in 1980, and Gayle is keen to arrest the slide when the first test begins at the University Oval tomorrow.
Back in the 1980s the Windies were the benchmark in world cricket with the likes of Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, Joel Garner and Colin Croft putting fear into rival batting line-ups.
Desmond Haynes and Gordon Greenidge formed a formidable opening partnership and with Clive Lloyd and the master blaster, Viv Richards, also in the ranks, their batting order offered little reprieve.
Today's side still has plenty of class players, especially in the batting, with the likes of ICC cricketer of the year Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Gayle himself.
But a world ranking of seventh is a fair reflection.
"The main objective is to try and rebuild," Gayle said.
"That is the step we are trying to take now.
"Right now it is a much younger team and there are opportunities for guys to actually make a name for themselves.
"We've got two test matches here and hopefully we can do well. We've been struggling in the past, so hopefully we can make this a turning point for us.
"These two test matches are very crucial."
New Zealand, which is ranked eighth in the world, has had the better of the West Indies in recent matches, winning five of the last seven tests.
The other two were drawn.
But New Zealand returned home from Australia wounded after receiving a 2-0 drubbing by the world's No 1 side.
Gayle, though, expects the Black Caps will shape as much tougher opponents on their home soil.
"To be honest, they played against the No 1 team in the world so they were up against a good challenge there. But we are even stevens right now. Both of us are close on points . . . so it is a good opportunity for both teams to actually play good competitive cricket."
Gayle said the Windies had been starved of test cricket - they last played in June.
But the relaxed opener believes his side would adjust to the demands of the longer form of the game.
"It might be a bit difficult for the younger players . . . but this is the lifestyle of international cricketer and you have to try to make the necessary turnaround as quick as possible."
The West Indies have had trouble in the past with New Zealand conditions and, in particular, the swinging ball.
But with no Tim Southee or Kyle Mills in the New Zealand side, the visitors will be able to rest easier.
Left-armer James Franklin may take the new ball if conditions suit but it is more likely Mark Gillespie and Iain O'Brien will share the new cherry.
