Clutch bowling at the death and safe hands in the field has seen New Zealand top against Australia by 8 runs at the World T20.
Mitchell McClenaghan, who came into the side for Nathan McCullum, gave up just three runs while taking two wickets in a crucial 19th over to stifle Australia's chance at a comeback.
Requiring 19 runs off the final over, Corey Anderson gave up 11 runs and took two wickets as Australia's run chase fizzled out late.
Black Caps captain Kane Williamson won the toss and elected to bat first.
Martin Guptill and Williamson made a strong start, but a consistent fall of wickets stalled the New Zealand innings.
The pair brought up 58 runs in the first six overs before Guptill was caught on the boundary rope for 39.
The opener would end up being New Zealand's leading scorer as Williamson (24), Munro (23) and Taylor (11) couldn't find a second gear.
New Zealand only managed to score 84 runs in their final 14 overs, losing eight wickets in the process.
Australia persisted on closing out the innings with pace bowlers, and managed to hold New Zealand to a score of 142-8.
James Faulkner and Glenn Maxwell both grabbed two wickets, while Shane Watson went 1-22 off his four overs.
Australia made a confident start to their chase, with Usman Khawaja having no trouble finding the boundary rope.
However, two quick wickets of Watson for 11 and skipper Steve Smith for 6 brought New Zealand back into the game.
With momentum lost, the Black Caps managed to remove the dangerous Khawaja for 38 after a great throw on the boundary from Adam Milne ran him out.
David Warner was quick to follow, caught for 6 by Guptill as tried to free up the arms in an attempt to hit a big stroke.
Glenn Maxwell, who attempted some left-handed shots, and Mitchell Marsh saw Australia through to 100-4, requiring 43 runs from the final 30 balls.
McClenaghan swung the match back in New Zealand's favour when his slower deliveries removed Marsh (24) and Agar (9), denting Australia's hopes.
McClenaghan finished with 3-17 figures, while Anderson and Santner both grabbed two wickets.
New Zealand's next game is against Pakistan early Wednesday (NZT).
Newshub.