The Black Sticks men have finished second at the International Festival of Hockey in Melbourne after being defeated 3-1 by hosts Australia in the final.
Black Sticks striker James Coughlan in action against Australia Photo: Photosport
New Zealand played well for much of the match but the world number one ranked Kookaburras were able to capitalise on more of their chances.
Coach Colin Batch said the final result was disappointing but there have been many positives that have come out of the series.
"It's obviously disappointing to lose a final like that. We fought very hard in the second half to get back into it and were in a position there where we could've levelled the game," he said.
"Overall I'm pleased with the new guys in the squad, they've experienced some high quality games both here in Melbourne and at the Trans-Tasman Trophy.
New Zealand men's hockey coach Colin Batch. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
"It was really important we made the final, and also our win over India which was virtually their Olympic team was pleasing so we head home with some positives to build on."
The match opened with the pace and attacking intensity deserving of a final as both the Black Sticks and Kookaburras came within inches of scoring on several occasions.
Australia grabbed the advantage in the 24th minute when Trent Mitton slipped a squeeze shot past goalkeeper Richard Joyce's left shoulder in his 100th game for the Kookaburras.
The Black Sticks earned their first penalty corner of the match in the 37th minute but after the flick was defended, the Kookaburras broke away and scored at the other end through Christopher Bausor.
New Zealand hockey player Nick Haig. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Defender Kane Russell stepped up from a 48th minute penalty corner and slammed a drag flick low and into the corner to cut Australia's lead in half.
The Black Sticks fought hard to try and find an equaliser but were unable to cut through the defence before the Kookaburras sealed the result one minute from fulltime with a close range strike from Jeremy Hayward.
Defender Nick Haig brought up his 200th test for New Zealand in the match.
- RNZ
