New Zealand 19 South Africa 8: The All Blacks got their Tri Nations campaign off to a perfect start with a 19-8 victory over world champions South Africa in Wellington.

A second half try from Jerome Kaino proved key for the All Blacks while 14 points from the boot of Dan Carter helped maintain the advantage against a gritty Springbok side.

New Zealand led early on but were pegged back before the break when winger Bryan Habana crashed over in the left corner to give the visitors hope.

But the Kiwi forwards were dominant in the second half with a fourth penalty from Carter sealing the points 10 minutes from the final whistle.

New Zealand captain Rodney So'oialo was a relieved man after the final whistle.

"It was a very important win for us," he told Sky Sports. "We were on the back foot throughout the first half but came good thanks to a 15-minute spell in the second.

"South Africa are the best, they're the world champs and have a great defence which we needed to crack.

"I'm just glad the boys came through."