The coveted Ranfurly Shield is staying put in Napier after holders Hawke's Bay posted a huge win over challengers Northland Taniwha in the just-concluded Mitre 10 Cup match at McLean Park.
After a strong first-half performance, the Magpies cranked the handle after the breather and scored four tries to win 33-17 with bonus points in front of their home fans.
The win takes the hosts to pole position on the championship ladder.
Northland were in for a chance after replacement Lua Li dotted down off a lineout maul with the last quarter remaining but unforced errors put paid to any hopes of a comeback.
