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All Blacks outside-centre Anton Lienert-Brown breaks through the Ireland defence.Credit:Getty Images

They also had not been really challenged since their tournament opener against South Africa four weeks ago and fans were concerned they could be underprepared for the intensity of a World Cup knockout match.

Steve Hansen's side allayed those fears with a blistering and bruising performance where they constantly drove Ireland back at the breakdown and in the tackle and never allowed them to get their close-running game going.

Winger George Bridge crosses for the All Blacks.Credit:Getty Images

They also forced the Irish into numerous handling errors,particularly in contact inside their own half,destroying their momentum.

After Smith scored his first try in the 14th minute following a sustained build-up,the All Blacks seized on two Johnny Sexton errors to put the game beyond doubt before half-time.

The Irish five-eighth failed to find touch for an attacking lineout,with Richie Mo'unga brilliantly keeping the ball in play and the All Blacks then cleared to Ireland's half when three minutes later,Smith grabbed his second from close range.

Sexton then dropped the ball on halfway in a tackle and Mo'unga kicked it ahead with Beauden Barrett winning the race to give the All Blacks a 22-0 lead they held to the break despite defending for most of the last 10 minutes of the first period.

Beauden Barrett toes ahead before adding another try.Credit:Getty Images

The All Blacks refused to take their foot off the gas in the second half,keeping Ireland pinned inside their own territory and controlling possession with hooker Codie Taylor,replacement flanker Matt Todd,winger George Bridge and replacement Jordie Barrett crossing.

Robbie Henshaw gave his side a face-saving try moments after he squandered a gilt-edged opportunity while referee Nigel Owens also awarded them a penalty try and sin-binned Todd for a professional foul.