The Melbourne Rebels, who returned to training this week, will play only New Zealand opposition in their pre-season build-up to the start of the Super Rugby season.

New coach Damien Hill said his team will play in three vital trial matches in February.

All three trial matches will take place in Victoria against New Zealand opposition - the first against the Chiefs at Geelong's Simonds Stadium on Friday, February 3.

It will be the first time Geelong has ever hosted a match between two Super Rugby teams.

"It's always good to trial against New Zealand teams, they do the basics extremely well," said Hill.

"You end up with a really good indication of where you're at in regards your set piece breakdown and your defence."

Hill says the teams chosen for the Rebels' trial games were considered carefully.

The second trial game will take place at the home of the Melbourne Rebels, AAMI Park, on Saturday, February 11 against 2011 Super Rugby semifinalists the Blues.

The three-time Super Rugby champions boast a formidable team with current All Blacks Keven Mealamu, Ali Williams, Jerome Kaino and Isaia Toeava in their squad.

The final trial is also at AAMI Park against 2011 New Zealand conference champions the Crusaders on Saturday, February 18.

The Melbourne Rebels are yet to face the Crusaders in a Super Rugby match, but did play against them in a trial match before the 2011 season.

Also featuring multiple All Blacks in their line-up - including Israel Dagg and Zac Guildford - this will be a stern test for Hill's men before their season opener in Round Two against the NSW Waratahs.

"We have a bit of an ongoing relationship going with the Crusaders," said Hill.

"It's always good to check yourself against historically one of the most consistent performers in the Super Rugby competition.

"It will give us a really good indication of where we stand going into the season."