New Zealand and Samoa hope to forge closer ties from today's All Blacks test in Apia.

Both countries will be holding diplomatic talks and All Blacks coach Steve Hansen will be gifted an honorary high chief title.

Prime Minister John Key is holding talks with his Samoan counterpart Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi while he visits Samoa to watch the match.

He's also leading a delegation of visiting MPs from National, Labour and the Greens.

Samoa was once a territory of New Zealand, but the two countries don't always see eye-to-eye.

Labour's Mangere MP Su'a William Sio said a hard, tough game of rugby will bring both countries together to talk things over.

"Despite our differences from time to time, this has the potential to bring our countries a lot closer together."

Mr Sio said the game is something the Samoan government have wanted for a long time.

"When New Zealand delegations have gone to Samoa, the Prime Minister has always championed it - when are we going to be able to play the All Blacks?"

It's no secret that Apia will be abuzz when the All Blacks and Samoa go head to head.

And for the Samoan community here in New Zealand, the match-up will bring a similar level of excitement.

President of Auckland's Otahuhu Rugby Football Club Aiolupotea John Roache says it's more about the occasion than the game itself.

He said they are "planning a big celebration in support of the game, not only for Manu Samoa but for the All Blacks as well."

Legendary All Black and former Manu Samoa coach Bryan Williams will be watching from the stands.

He said it will be a chance to recognise Samoa's contribution to New Zealand rugby over many years.

"I'll be thinking of people like Peter Fatialofa, Jerry Collins, as that game gets underway," he said.

"The signing of the national anthems I think is going to be a very poignant moment."

Kick off is at 2.00pm, and Radio Sport will have live commentary.