Manawatu scored a late try to grab a 28-23 win over Northland in their opening provincial rugby match in Whangarei.
Penalties were traded in the first half with Manawatu leading 9-6 at the break.
The homeside jumped out to a 23-14 lead before Manawatu surged back for the win.
Manawatu scored 3 tries to 2.
Earlier Tasman scored a comprehensive 35-15 win over Hawke's Bay in Blenheim.
Tasman's Bryce Heem scores against Hawke's Bay. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Tasman scored after just two minutes and then added 3 more tries to pick up a bonus point.
The homeside led 23-3 at half time, with first five Marty Banks controlling the game and kicking well.
The defending champions Canterbury had an impressive opening weekend of the championship, trouncing Auckland in Christchurch.
Canterbury scored 6 tries to none in their 48-9 demolition of Auckland in Christchurch.
The homeside played the game at speed and with width, were clinical and again showed they are the side to beat this season.
The Crusaders Adam Whitelock scores against Auckland. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Waikato beat Wellington 37-25 in their first NPC match in Wellington.
Elsewhere Otago played an expansive game to score a 28-14 victory over North Harbour in their opening match.
Otago fullback Trent Renata playing against North Harbour. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Otago scored 3 tries to two and led 20-14 at half time.
Southland have beaten Bay of Plenty 34-23 at Invercargill's Rugby Park to get their provincial rugby Championship season off to a winning start.
Counties Manukau and Taranaki drew 9-all in New Plymouth.
Taranaki's Blade Thompson in action against Counties Manukau. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
