New Zealand are considering switching Dan Carter to inside centre amid an injury crisis in the build-up to their Tri-Nations encounter with South Africa.

The All Blacks have already lost regular centres Richard Kahui and Conrad Smith out to shoulder and hamstring injuries respectively, while Luke McAlister will miss out with a fractured cheekbone.

That has left coach Graham Henry considering his options for the September 12 showdown with the Springboks.

Fly-half Carter, who only returned to the side from a long injury lay-off in their 19-18 win over Australia in Sydney on August 22, could now be employed in a new position.

"We're just trying to pick the best team for this Test match. Dan can play 12 as we all know," said Henry.

"He played 12 for quite a lot of the game against Australia in Sydney. It's just a matter of us picking the best team for this particular Test."