Blackcaps fast-bowler Trent Boult remains in doubt for Thursday's first test against Australia, as he battles to overcome a side strain.
On Monday, NZ team officials hoped the left-armer would still pass a fitness test later in the week in Perth.
New Zealand had their first hit out at Optus Stadium and while Boult completed light warm-up duties, he did not bowl, given he only arrived on Sunday.
"He's here, which is a good start," fellow quick Tim Southee said. "He will be assessed over the next couple of days over how his fitness pulls up.
"He's here and if he can get through the next couple of days, I don't see why he wouldn't play.
"He is an experienced guy and if he's good to go, he's good to go."
Boult, who was injured in New Zealand's test win over England a fortnight ago, was forced to pass a fitness test last Friday to prove he could fly to Australia.
All-rounder Colin de Grandhomme is in a similar position, after also tearing his abdominal in the same test win over England, but Boult's fitness will attract the most attention.
The left-armer has taken two five-wicket hauls in his two day-night test matches, his 16 wickets coming at an average of just 12.50 runs.
The 29-year-old could pose a specific threat to Australia's two premier batsmen, Steve Smith and David Warner.
His natural angle from over the wicket and swinging of the ball away from the left-hander has previously troubled Warner, while he has also picked up Smith's wicket four times.
"He is a very good bowler," Smith said. "Good skills, left-arm bowler that can swing the ball back [into the right-hander].
"Anyone that does that at pretty good pace, it's something you don't see a lot of.
"He has terrific skills, a great record. I know he has got a bit of a side strain or something.
"He is maybe a little bit undone, but no doubt, if he plays, we will have to very watchful - he is a very good bowler."
AAP
