Southee's absence wasn't the only drastic change, with captain Kane Williamson and batsman Henry Nicholls failing to recover from their illness, allowing a surprise debut for Glenn Phillips, and an unexpected return for Jeet Raval.
With their backs against the wall, Stead is hoping that at least those decisions will pay dividends when the Black Caps get a chance to bat.
"There's an opportunity for one new guy, and one who's been there before who probably didn't expect to get this opportunity, to go out there and make a name for themselves.
"We live and die by those decisions - we'll want them to stand up and be the best they can be."