Southland have scored a thrilling 36-34 win over Northland in Invercargil to keep alive their ITM Cup rugby championship hopes.
Southland celebrate a win over Northland 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Southland scored a try through Lolohea Loco in the 81st minute to grab the win.
Southland, who scored five tries to four, are up to third in the Championship, one place behind Northland.
Auckland beat Bay of Plenty 27-12 in Rotorua.
Canterbury recorded their fifth straight win in the Premiership, inflicting Wellington's fifth consecutive loss as the six-time defending champions romped home 46-12 in Christchurch.
Wellington No.8 Brad Shields looks on despondently Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Canterbury ran in seven tries to two and led 15-0 at half-time, with former All Black Tom Taylor dotting down twice and kicking four conversions and a penalty.
North Harbour finally won a game, ending Manawatu's dominating run with a 24-13 victory in their Championship clash in Auckland.
Harbour only led 11-10 at the break but scored two tries to one.
Taranaki have scored their fourth straight win to go top of rugby's ITM Cup Premiership for now, with a last minute 31-30 victory over Tasman in Nelson.
Taranaki celebrate late win over Tasman 2014 Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The home side had the win in the bag with time almost up but instead of kicking the ball out they went for the bonus point try, only to turn the ball over.
Taranaki then put together a fantastic team try with Waisake Naholo crossing, to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Tasman led 17-6 at half-time.
Both sides scored three tries.
Northland continue to climb up the ITM Cup Championship standings after thrashing Otago 40-23 in Dunedin.
Northland prop Ross Wright about to score against Otago 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Otago led 20-15 at half-time and despite losing first-five Dan Hawkins to a yellow card in the second half, Northland stormed home to score three tries in the last 10 minutes.
Northland, who scored five tries to two, have won three of their five matches and are up to second in the Championship, level with Manawatu but behind on points difference.
