The Silver Ferns brushed aside recent upheaval to thump South Africa 77-51 in the opening test of the Taini Jamison series in Auckland.
Interim coach Yvette McCausland-Durie guided the side after Dame Noeline Taurua and her assistants were stood down, with veteran defender Kelly Jackson setting the tone early as New Zealand surged to a 20-8 first-quarter lead.
Grace Nweke dominated with 59 goals at 88 percent, while Peta Toeava impressed on her return and debutants Martina Salmon and Catherine Hall both made strong contributions. Despite a late Proteas fightback, the early onslaught proved decisive, with the Ferns now heading to Napier for Wednesday’s second test.
