The Football Ferns looked certain to end an 18-year losing streak to Australia in Wollongong on Sunday before the Matildas scored an equalising goal seconds before the final whistle to grab a 1-1 draw.
Hayley Moorwood's 50th minute goal put New Zealand on course to break their drought, but Australia found a last-gasp equaliser in the third minute of added time.
But the Football Ferns have extended their unbeaten run to a record-equalling nine matches, including a recent 2-0 series win over China - their first-ever victories over the Chinese - and coach Tony Readings says they're laying a solid foundation for their Olympic campaign.
Australia and New Zealand meet again in Wollongong on Wednesday afternoon.
