New Zealand will take little inspiration from its 2011 Rugby World Cup final win over France when the sides meet in the last eight of this year's competition, according to Kieran Read.

All Blacks number eight Read was part of the successful side in Auckland four years ago as an 8-7 victory secured a second Webb Ellis Trophy.

Several players, including Read, remain key to the All Blacks' plans, but the 81-cap forward does not believe much can be drawn from that contest.

"I don't think there are any parallels," Read said. "This is about two different teams. 

"They are a great side and they put some pressure on a pretty good Ireland team and they have some great players. It's two good teams going at it which will be very exciting.

"There are things you can take out of past experiences, most Test matches for us over the last four years have taught us a lot.

"We have been able to get out of a few situations. Certainly a play-off game heightens the pressure and expectation."

France finished second in Pool D after rounding out the first stage with a defeat to Ireland, while New Zealand cruised through Pool C unbeaten, picking up bonus point in all but one game.

"I think they will come with a blend. They have very strong forwards, who are really strong around the breakdown area," Read said. "They will come hard at us there, but they have got some flair in their backline and some pretty classy midfielders. So, I am sure they will mix it up.

"You've got to prepare for the old French flair. We are preparing for the top French team to turn up this weekend and I am sure that's what we are going to get.

"They have been playing some pretty good rugby throughout this World Cup and they have some pretty good leaders.

"Here we have two teams that are very passionate about World Cup rugby and it's going to be one hell of a battle."