Smeltz (31), the Perth Glory striker, jetted into Dunedin yesterday as the All Whites gathered to start training for their World Cup qualifier at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
''This is a crucial game. We don't want to leave it to going to the Solomons to get a result. We are confident we can finish it without needing to go there and get a result,'' he said.
''It's not a long time to be in camp, a couple of days' training. But we know each other. We are in season, we are fit, and we are ready for this game. We need to get the job done.''
Smeltz is part of an exciting All Whites side that is set for a big year, with World Cup qualification to be decided over the next few months.
But that is the future, Smeltz says, and the side just has to take one step at a time.
''We're not focusing on the playoff, though it is natural to have that in the back of your mind.
''We know what happened last time. It definitely gets exciting from here on. I'm sure the boys know what is on. The excitment is there but it is all about getting the job done [on Friday night].''
''We have been looking forward to this one. We would love to beat them and beat them well. Love to beat them on our home turf.''
If the All Whites win on Friday, they will face a two-leg playoff to qualify for the World Cup finals in Brazil in 2014.
If they do not win on Friday, they will have to travel to Honiara and get a point from the match with the Solomon Islands next Tuesday.
This will be the first time in several years the All Whites will run out in an important match without Ryan Nelsen.
The inspirational All Whites skipper has retired from the international stage and his replacement as captain will be named today.
Smeltz, who has 48 caps for his country, said it was a something of a shock to lose the captain, but he was confident the side had the artillery to handle the occasion.
''Obviously, Nelly [Nelsen] is going to be a loss. That was unexpected when it happened. But, as a group and as a country, we need to move on. It is the senior boys' job to step up and make sure we continue this leadership.''
Smeltz has heard nothing but good things from team-mates who have experienced Forsyth Barr Stadium.
''I've heard it is a great venue to play at. The boys who have played here are always speaking highly of it. It is hard and reasonably fast. I have played under a roof before in Melbourne but it is not something you do every day.''
Smeltz is likely to start for the side on Friday but the All Whites attack is one where coach Ricki Herbert is spoilt for choice.
With the likes of Chris Wood, Jeremy Brockie, Marco Rojas and Kosta Babarouses also among the options, Herbert should not lack for ability in the final third of the field.
Smeltz admitted competition for places brought out the best in everyone.
''I think the depth has been as good as it has ever been. And not just up front; at the back and in the middle. It is one of the strongest sides I have ever been involved in.
''There is a number of players putting their hand up. It's a healthy headache for Ricki to have. And it will bring out the best of them. To get to the World Cup and do something, you need a strong side.''
All the national side has arrived in the city, with Rojas the last to join the team last night. Winston Reid played in London only two days ago so it has been a big trip for him to get to Dunedin.
The side will train today at an open session at the Caledonian, starting at 5pm, and a couple of players will be at the Edgar Centre this afternoon to watch some junior futsal.