The Kiwis are the new Four Nations rugby league champions after beating holders Australia 22-18 in the final at Wellington's Westpac Stadium last night.

The hosts outscored the Kangaroos four tries to three, before holding off a fast‑finishing Australia with desperate defence in the dying minutes.

Left wing Manu Vatuvei bagged a brace of tries, while right wing Jason Nightengale and halfback Shaun Johnson were New Zealand's other try-scorers.

New Zealand led 14-6 at half-time.

Source: Radio New Zealand