Thrilling finish sees New Zealand hand Australia first World Cup defeat

New Zealand have snared victory against Australia after a thrilling finale in which it was impossible to tell whether the Black Caps would run out of wickets before they could hit their last runs.

After dismissing Australia for 151 with a brutal bowling attack at Eden Park, the Black Caps found themselves in a similar position, needing six runs with just one wicket left thanks to an amazing fightback from Australia.

Kane Williamson, who scored a total of 45, sent the ball soaring over the heads of the Australians for a six, prompting roars of joy from the crowd.

Aussie quick Mitchell Starc led the way for the visitors, snaring 6/28, including two tail-end wickets in consecutive balls to leave New Zealand reeling and suddenly in doubt of an easy victory.

It was a day for bowlers to shine at Eden Park, starting with New Zealand's destruction of Australia's batting order, limiting the visitors to just 151.

Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin ended up top-scoring for Australia with 43, after the Aussies lost eight wickets for just 26 runs, giving his team some hope.

Returned skipper Michael Clarke was sent back to the pavilion for just 12 runs in his first innings back from injury.

The Aussies seemed off to a solid start, racing to 1/48 from just five overs.

However, Kiwi bowlers Trent Boult, Timothy Southee and Daniel Vettori soon broke through, bringing the favoured Australians to their knees.

Eden Park is largely considered a batsman's ground, with shorter boundaries than a normal ICC-approved venue.