A maiden Test hundred by Henry Nicholls has helped New Zealand fight back from a top-order collapse on day one of the second Test against South Africa at Wellington's Basin Reserve.
Reduced to 21-3 inside the first hour, the 25-year-old was the backbone of the Black Caps innings, scoring 118 as they were bowled out for 268.
The New Zealanders roared back into contention in the last half-hour of play by claiming two late wickets, leaving the Proteas reeling at 2-20 at stumps.
Recalled paceman Tim Southee celebrated his return to the Black Caps with the scalp of opener Stephen Cook, who edged a seaming delivery to Jimmy Neesham at second slip.
Neesham also featured in Dean Elgar's dismissal two overs later, taking a sharp catch as the opener chased a full delivery from Colin de Grandhomme.
Nightwatchman Kagiso Rabada and Hashim Amla went on to see South Africa through to close of play without further loss.
Giuseppe Labellarte
