Lote's tour up in the air

Wallabies winger Lote Tuqiri will put his long-term health ahead of short-term ambition, declaring he will miss Australia's historic end-of-season tour of Hong Kong, Europe and the UK if his injured knee fails to fully recover.

The dual international is desperate to take part in the six-match trip - which includes a Bledisloe Cup clash with New Zealand in Hong Kong and Tests against Italy, France, England, Wales followed by a showdown with the Barbarians at Wembley - but only if he's convinced his left knee will hold up.

Tuqiri underwent surgery to repair meniscus damage in mid-September and is yet to fully extend himself on the training paddock.

Heading into a crucial week of preparation with the Wallabies in Sydney, a forthright Tuqiri told Sportal on Monday: "If it's not right then I won't be taking any risks."

"If there's any doubt there will be no hesitation (in pulling out)."

"You've got to make sure you don't come back too early. I've spoken to a fair few different people about what to do and their experiences and they say not to rush it."

"I will liaise with medical staff and they will know and I will know within myself if it's right."

Tuqiri will up the tempo at training this week in a bid to test the injured knee and remains confident of avoiding any setbacks.

"It's going alright but this week will be the test. I'm doing a fair bit more this week," he explained.

"My gut feeling is I will be alright for the tour. It's all positive and if it keeps going that way I will be on that plane."

"But ask me Friday and I will have a better indication for you."

The dreadlocked winger is aware of the significance of making this tour, with rugby internationals to be played in Hong Kong and at Wembley for the first time.

But he believes the benefits of an extended period overseas together - the first such tour under coach Robbie Deans - outweighs the historic importance.

"It is an important tour. It's always good to go away and build that camaraderie," Tuqiri said.

"You are living out of each other's pockets and relying on each other rather than going back home."

"It's great for team bonding and comes at the right time for us."