The Black Ferns have started their World Cup preparations with a 23-10 victory over Australia.
The game was played in wet conditions in Tauranga as the Black Ferns come from 10 nil down to win.
The New Zealand side, with seven new caps, scored four unanswered tries from the 32nd minute to catch the Wallaroos, who were 10-0 up after 10 minutes.
Australia, who have never beaten New Zealand, dominated the opening half an hour and took the lead through of a try from prop Liz Patu and a Lori Cramer penalty.
Conditions made it difficult for New Zealand’s backline to get involved but the Black Ferns made the most of it when they did finally get into the Australia half and
New Zealand’s tries came from winger Ayesha Leti-I’iga, flanker Alana Bremner, and number eight Kaipo Olsen-Baker.
The Wallaroos pack continued to impress but a new front row brought on early in the second half by the Black Ferns shifted the momentum decisively.
The two sides will meet again in their opening match of the World Cup at Eden Park on October 8.
