Star wing Lote Tuqiri has gone on the offensive, declaring his confidence in Waratahs pack doing the job this season despite the departure of three Australia players.

Tuqiri has dismissed suggestions - which have followed NSW since the end of last season - that they won't have the strength up front, to match their rivals.

The Waratahs head into tomorrow's Super 14 opener against the powerful Hurricanes in Wellington minus Test trio Dan Vickerman, Rocky Elsom and David Lyons.

The Waratahs/Hurricanes match will kickoff tomorrow at 6:35pm.

Meanwhile in today's game the Highlanders plays the Brumbies at 6:35pm, the Force hosts the Blues at 10:45pm and early tomorrow morning at 5:10, the Lions take on the Cheetahs.