Having consistently improved their work in possession of the ball in recent times, the match gave Readings a good indication of where the next progression must come as the Football Ferns continue their drive towards the top 10 sides in the world.
"We do push teams back for long periods now and it's a credit to our players that it was their strategy. It's a good thing for us as we've got to learn new ways of breaking teams down.
"We're keeping the ball really well. Now we've just got to add that variety in the way we can hurt teams.
"As we evolve the team between now and the World Cup and the Olympics, mixing up our game is something we need to get better at because we'll be facing different styles against top sides at the big events."
Readings highlighted the work of New Zealand U-20 player Megan Lee, starting her first match for the Football Ferns while fellow fullback Ria Percival and midfielder Katie Hoyle also enjoyed strong outings with and without the ball.
The Football Ferns' next match of the tournament is on Thursday against 10th-ranked Korea DPR.
New Zealand 0
China 1
HT: 0-0