Northland face a nervous wait to see if they will qualify for the championship playoffs, after last night's 36-18 defeat to Wellington at Westpac Stadium.
Heading into the match, all the Taniwha needed was a bonus point out of the match, but failing to get one means their fate is out of their hands.
The Lions outscored Northland five tries to two, including a brace to lively hooker Asafo Aumua as they secured their ninth win of the season.
Wellington led 12-10 at the break.
Northland will miss out of the playoffs if Bay of Plenty, Otago and Manawatu all win their final matches of the season.
Bay of Plenty will face Waikato, while Otago hosts Southland and Manawatu will face Hawke's Bay.
Wellington have secured themselves a home semi-final after finishing on top of the championship ladder.
Newshub.