In the forwards, Chris King plays his 99th game of Super Rugby. Jarrad Hoeata comes back into the starting pack and he is joined by Elliot Dixon at number eight.
In the backs, Colin Slade makes his long awaited return to the starting XV and he will be joined by debutant Jason Emery who will start at centre.
In the reserves, TJ Ioane comes into the Highlanders' 22 for the first time.
Highlanders v Hurricanes, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin - Friday 15 March, 7.35pm (NZ Time): Ben Smith, Kade Poki, Jason Emery, Phil Burleigh, Hosea Gear (Vice-captain), Colin Slade, Aaron Smith, Elliot Dixon , John Hardie, Joe Wheeler, Jarrad Hoeata, Brad Thorn, Chris King, Andrew Hore (Captain), Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Brayden Mitchell, Ma'afu Fia, Jake Paringatai, TJ Ioane, Fumiaki Tanaka, Lima Sopoaga, Buxton Popoalii
