Auckland's Mitre 10 Cup premiership defence is back on track after a comprehensive win over Northland.
The 'Blues Derby' was over before it got going with, Auckland running in three tries in 10 minutes early in the first half.
The 43-10 win was a good response by the blue and white hoops, following a disappointing draw against North Harbour in the opening round.
Northland took the early lead in front of a sparse home crowd when Jack Debreczeni slotted a penalty after a few minutes.
But that was as good as it got for the Taniwha.
Auckland's first try came after 11 minutes when Jack Whetton crashed over following an attacking lineout and they would extend that lead to 18 points in a matter of moments when first Caleb Clarke capitalised on a loose ball to run 40 metres and score.
Then forward Jamie Lane added to Northland's misery with a third Auckland try three minutes later.
The home side trailed 24-3 at the break, but any hope of a sensational comeback was crushed early in the second when AJ lam scored a bonus point try for the visitors.
They would add two more before Pisi Leilua dotted down for a consolation try late in the piece.
Next up for Auckland is a home match against Bay of Plenty next Saturday, while Northland are on the road at play Taranaki next Sunday.
Newshub.