The matchday squad selection is Robertson’s first since taking charge of the team.
He was appointed in November and replaced Ian Foster who steered the team to the 2023 World Cup final against South Africa. New Zealand lost by a single point to the Springboks.
Robertson said Perofeta’s form for Auckland’s Blues during their march to the Super Rugby title secured his selection.
“Obviously the experience of 123 Tests counts for a lot, but Stephen Perofeta is also a guy who is in form, good around the high ball and playing great footy,” Robertson said.
“Just two weeks ago he was playing in a Test-match level game in a final. Beauden can play his part covering both 10 and 15. When you’ve got Beauden Barrett on the bench it’s pretty special.”
The first Test against England will be followed by a second match on 13 July at Eden Park in Auckland.
Steve Borthwick’s England are looking to make history as they have never won a Test series in New Zealand.
New Zealand XV to face England: S Perofeta; S Reece, R Ioane, J Barrett, M Tele’a; D McKenzie, T Perenara; E de Groot, C Taylor, T Lomax, S Barrett (capt), P Tuipulotu, S Finau, D Papali’i, A Savea.
Replacements: A Aumua, O Tu’ungafasi, F Newell, T Vaa’i, L Jacobson, F Christie, A Lienert-Brown, B Barrett.
