The search for a NZ cricket pace spearhead will continue over winter, with their most senior quick's international future under a cloud.

The Black Caps face a tough day at the office when they resume batting tomorrow on 185/5, 294 runs short of the target set by Australia.

Australia reached 333 for four in their second innings at stumps on day three, an overall lead of exactly 300.

Ross Taylor scored the fastest century in NZ test history, but had to watch as his teammates threw away their wickets, writes Dylan Cleaver.

New Zealand and Australia remain locked together after two days.

Daniel Vettori is responsible for five wickets as Australia slip in the second test - Vettori's 100th for the Black Caps.

Skipper Daniel Vettori's four wicket bag was the highlight on day one with New Zealand dismissing Australia for 231 off 74.3 overs.

It's been a remarkable journey for Daniel Vettori who will start a test match for the 100th time tomorrow.

Nineteen-year-old Kane Williamson is definitely old enough and comfortably good enough to face Australia, says his provincial coach.

The New Zealand selectors have called young Northern Districts batsman Kane Williamson into the squad for the second test against Australia.

NZ's big-hitting Brendon McCullum could retire his wicketkeeping gloves as early as the end of the second Australia test.

Australia need 106 runs to win the first test after dismissing NZ for 407 in Wellington today. Follow the final day live.