The Kiwis forwards paved the way for their side's thrilling Four Nations final win over the Kangaroos in Wellington on Saturday night.

Kiwis centre Dean Whare was missing for two days - but it was for good reason and done with management's blessing, as Whare returned to Sydney for the birth of his second child.

If the World Cup final was the end of the road, this is the start of something. And it could be the start of something big.

Watch a replay of tonight's live blog of the Four Nations final between the Kiwis and the Kangaroos in Wellington.

The Kiwis continue to sweat on shoulder injuries to Thomas Leuluai and Tohu Harris before they confirm their side to take on the Kangaroos in Saturday night's Four Nations final.

Kiwis hooker Thomas Leuluai believes his side has plenty of improvement left to make ahead of Saturday's Four Nations final against Australia in Wellington.

Kiwis twin try-scorer Jason Nightingale was in good spirits following their hard-fought 16-14 Four Nations win over England in Dunedin, despite nursing a nasty head wound.

This Four Nations tournament has been the best in years - and having the Kiwis at home has been a huge shot in the arm for the sport.

The Kiwis secured their place in the Four Nations final with a thrilling 16-14 win over England at Forsyth Barr Stadium tonight.

Watch a replay of tonight's live blog of the Four Nations rugby league international between the Kiwis and England from Forsyth Barr Stadium.

Towering prop Jesse Bromwich is thriving within the Kiwis environment and growing accustomed to playing a leadership role in the side.

Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney is expecting improvements across the board from his team, when they take on England in tonight's crucial Four Nations clash in Dunedin.

Veteran Australian forward Sam Thaiday believes the record number of Kangaroos rookies in the Four Nations squad are being schooled about the rigours of test league the hard way.

Kiwis fullback Peta Hiku is still finding his feet at test level but has been enjoying his time in the No 1 jersey so far throughout the Four Nations.

Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney has added experience to his interchange for their crucial Four Nations league encounter with England in Dunedin on Saturday.