The Silver Ferns produced a remarkable turnaround in a few days to level their series against Australia with a thumping 59-40 win in Thursday night's second Test in Wellington.
Australia scored the opening two goals, but New Zealand led 16-11 by the end of the first quarter, extended their advantage to 31-19 at half-time, and they took a 15-point lead into the final quarter.
The Ferns win was based round superb defence and deadly shooting. Irene van Dyk was unflappable, and after landing 15 of her 17 shots on goal, she was rested to give Daneka Wipiiti some game time.
The deciding Test is in Auckland on Sunday.
