Despite struggling to establish itself as a national sport alongside rugby league, rugby union and cricket, New Zealand finally have its football team back at the World Cup after an absence of 28 years.
The All-Whites, led by Blackburn captain Ryan Nelson beat Bahrain in their intercontinental play-off to seal their spot in South Africa.
The New Zealand side will be looking to gain their first FIFA World Cup win in South Africa and will be hoping to show they aren’t just make weights in the competition and goal fodder for the more recognised international sides, especially with Italy in their group.
Star Man - Ryan NelsonThe All Whites are all too aware they maybe targeted by Italy and Paraguay in South Africa so a solid and dependable centre back is needed and Blackburn's Ryan Nelson will be New Zealand's rock at the back.
Having captained the All Whites during their qualification campaign and in the Confederations Cup, Nelson will be leading his troops to South Africa again in hope of bringing Football out of the shade in New Zealand and delivering a performance the Kiwi's can be proud of.
Coach - Ricki Herbert
All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has one of the hardest tasks in international football in managing New Zealand, a country which sees Football as inferior to Rugby and Cricket.
Under Herbert's management however, New Zealand are becoming well loved and admired. Toughing it out in the Oceania group with no real competition New Zealand have progressed and now are far better equipped to compete in major international competitions.
One concern Herbert may have is that despite his fantastic coaching and the determination shown by his side results like the 5-0 defeat to Spain in the Confederations Cup threaten to embarrass them.
One to Watch - Chris Wood
At 18, Chris Wood could be one of the youngest players at the World Cup but in his style of play he's certainly old fashioned.
A real centre forward who can hold the ball up well, Wood has started his career with plenty of promise for West Bromich Albion and has done well when called upon internationally for New Zealand.
His age may stop him starting for New Zealand but Wood could become a secret weapon for the All Whites if their starting strikers falter.
Odds to win - 750/1GROUP STAGE FIXTURES
| DATE | TIME | CITY | FIXTURE |
| 15/06/10 | 13:30 | Rustenburg |  New Zealand vs. Slovakia  |
| 20/06/10 | 16:00 | Nelspruit | New Zealand vs. Italy  |
| 24/06/10 | 16:00 | Polokwane | New Zealand vs. Paraguay  |