Manawatu have reclaimed top spot in the provincial rugby Championship from Ranfurly Shield holders Hawke's Bay, after outgunning Southland 41-20 in Palmerston North.
Manawatu scored five tries to two, leading 24-13 at half-time, the Turbos taking pole position for a home semi-final with the result against the Stags, who slip to fifth after Otago thrashed Waikato 38-7 on Sunday.
Auckland trounced North Harbour 32-7 in the battle of the bridge at Eden Park, after Hawke's Bay beat Bay of Plenty 36-17 in Napier to successfully defend the Ranfurly Shield.
Hawke's Bay are second in the Championship, a point behind Manawatu.