He might be 30 and getting ready for his 82nd test, but the classy All Blacks No8 is also completing a rather unusual preparation for the first international of the season.
While his team-mates have been slogging their way through a Super Rugby season, Savea has been on a playing sabbatical in Japan.
That hardly means he has been having a holiday, but it does mean he has rather flown under the radar, and he acknowledges he is feeling edgy ahead of his ninth season in the black jersey and the test against England in Dunedin.
"I’m nervous. But nerves bring the best out of us," Savea said yesterday.
"It’s a great challenge for myself to step forward and try and own it on the field.
"It’s going to be tough. But I have full confidence to go out there and back myself.
"I’m just grateful to be in this team. It’s nice to be back and running round on New Zealand soil."
Something else is new.
Ian Foster has finished his four-year tenure as head coach, the new man in charge is Scott Robertson, and even well-established All Blacks can get a bit antsy as they strive to impress the incoming boss.
"It’s been refreshing. For us who have been blessed to be here for a few years, we’re still on our toes because we don’t know what’s happening or how things are going to operate, and I think that’s good.
"It keeps you on edge and brings the best out of everyone."
Savea would not give too much away when quizzed about how Robertson’s influence might manifest in the All Blacks tomorrow night.
The All Blacks would still aim to do the basics well, would still try to establish some set piece dominance, and would still need to make their tackles against a powerful England team.
On that note, he cannot wait to see new loose forward team-mate Samipeni Finau in action.
"He’s an energiser in our team. He’s a guy who can change momentum with our defence.
"He’s the quietest man off the field. But when he gets on there, he’s dangerous."
The man behind the scrum is not so quiet.
TJ Perenara is back from a serious injury to replace Aaron Smith at halfback, and Savea never doubted his longtime Hurricanes team-mate would get back in black.
"I always knew. If there is one person you want by your side, it’s Pere.
"He will never take no for an answer. He’s the most competitive person that I know, so for him to come back is not surprising.
"He’s got a lot of mana in this team. When he speaks, everyone listens.
"I’ve missed him, and it’s great to have him back."
Savea said the All Blacks had largely zoned in on their own preparation, but had done plenty of homework on England and knew the visitors deserved respect.
He is eagerly awaiting a chance to match up with rising English No8 Ben Earl.
"Yeah, Ben’s nice. He’s got good feet at the line, and he’s a strong ball-carrier.
"That’s something we need to identify and nullify, but it will be very hard."
