Defeats to Argentina and Samoa have seen the Welsh squad come in for criticism for their performances but Hansen believes they will relish the chance of taking on the All Blacks.
“I haven’t taken too much notice of their recent form. They’re Grand Slam winners and World Cup semi-finalists,” said the former Wales coach.
“This side has won three Grand Slams, they’re a very good side. Self-belief is a big thing in sport and I know they’ll be getting mentally ready and be excited for this game.
“Every team that plays the All Blacks seems to find another gear so we don’t want them finding too many. Our job is to stamp our mark on the game and do our best to put them under pressure.
“Invariably when you get criticised you get tighter and that’ll make them more dangerous.
“We know for sure this is the game they’re chasing and we have to be up for that.”
The All Blacks go into Saturday’s clash on the back of convincing wins over Scotland and Italy. And Hansen, who was in charge of Wales from 2002 until 2004, has fond memories of his time in charge.
“For me it was a great time,” he added.
“There were a lot of things I learnt about myself and about coaching. You certainly want to enjoy the good times and work smart in the tough times.
“I’m proud of everything I‘ve done in coaching. What we did at that time was probably the tightest team I’ve ever been associated with, the culture within the team was good.”
Hansen has named a hugely experienced New Zealand side for Saturday’s clash with his starting XV boasting an impressive 745 caps between them.
Richie McCaw leads the side with Dan Carter returning to start at fly-half.
“Obviously we’d like to start well but sometimes that’s not the way it goes,” commented Hansen.
“As long as we keep to our game then the opportunities will come.”
