"A number of guys are not big names, but they have a great record to back them, like Azhar and Babar.
"[Fakhar] is another exciting player who likes to get on with it. He's had a great start to his international career but hasn't toured New Zealand, so there will be challenges adapting to different conditions."
New Zealand have employed former Black Cap Kyle Mills as a bowling mentor while Shane Jurgensen takes a break.
Southee has played plenty of international cricket with Mills, and welcomed his addition.
"Kyle's been brilliant since he's been around the camp for a couple of days. It's exciting to share his knowledge. He played cricket for a long time and is tactically sound."
New Zealand are expected to play three pace bowlers and two spinning all-rounders in Todd Astle and Mitchell Santner. That means the hosts can opt for the pace of Lockie Ferguson or the accuracy of Matt Henry when they finalise an XI.
Strong winds are forecast, so Southee was certain of one thing.
"Trent [Boult] will make his mark at one end and the rest of us will take turns at the other into the breeze," he quipped.
"You prepare yourself for wind [in Wellington] and, if there's not, you're a bit happier."
Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed said it was a special time for his side as they adjusted to the fanfare from triumphing at the Champions Trophy, a feat which set a nine-ODI winning streak in motion.
"Our players got a boost. We've continued the same way since with just the odd change, so it gives us a proper chance of having a decent team at the 2019 World Cup.
"People at home were happy and excited. It was a long time since we'd beaten India, so there were lots of congratulations from the Prime Minister down."
The match is a day game to capture a holiday crowd.
Showers have been forecast leading in, but are expected to become isolated as southerlies ease on the day.
