New Zealand has overcome a gutsy effort from Australia, pulling off the 14-12 win after a second-half comeback.
Following a tough day one, Tim Walsh's men had a point to prove against the World Series champions.
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They would smother the Kiwis early on, causing some uncharacteristic mistakes as they looked to book a spot in the quarter-finals.
Starting for just the second time, Samu Kerevi would open NZ up, scoring under the posts after just two minutes.
They would extend the lead shortly afterwards as captain Nick Malouf powered over to give Australia a 12-0 lead.
However, New Zealand showed their class in the second half as Dylan Collier immediately answered back after the break.
Whilst Collier would be sin-binned from the restart for a dangerous tackle, this failed to slow down their momentum.
Down a player, Andrew Knewstubb would break some loose tackles from the Aussies to score under the posts, taking the 14-12 lead.
Australia would lose Lachie Anderson late as he came off with injury as they pushed for the win.
In the end, sloppy errors late in the game would cost them as New Zealand closed out the game.
The close loss ensures Australia will finish third in their pool, qualifying them for the quarter-finals as it sets up a date with either Fiji or New Zealand.
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