Defending World Netball Champions New Zealand has started their campaign on a high note thrashing Malawi 85 goals to 26 in the opening game last night.

The Silver Ferns with the support from the home fans proved too strong for the opposition in all aspects of the game as they starved the Malawi side of possession in most parts of the game.

New Zealand's feast of possession saw goal shooter Irene Van Dyk shoot the perfect game sinking 42 shots from 42 attempts before she was replaced with 15 minutes of play remaining.

The Silver Ferns led 23-5 at the end of the 1st quarter and the score was 45 points to 10 at halftime.

New Zealand's second pool game is against Wales tomorrow at 3.10pm.