New Zealand held their nerve after leaking three unanswered first-half tries to beat South Africa 23-21 in a gripping Tri-Nations clash today.
In a grandstand finish, winger Doug Howlett crashed over on the right with a minute remaining after wave after wave of All Black attacks had been stopped just short.
The Springboks had snatched their first try through winger Jean de Villers in the opening minute of the game and produced an inspired defensive display to scavenge two more touchdowns following counter-attacks.
But, despite leading 21-12 at the break, they were eventually worn down.
All Black centre Daniel Carter kicked five penalties before being substituted and flyhalf Carlos Spencer added a sixth to make it 21-18 with 10 minutes remaining before Howlett's winner.
New Zealand also won their opening home match, 16-7 against Australia.