New Zealand have rallied from eight goals down just after halftime to run down archrivals Australia and finally lift the Constellation Cup in Christchurch.
Less than 24 hours after a similar comeback in the third encounter, the Silver Ferns again found themselves on the back foot after two quarters, but trusted their ability to finish strongly, eventually prevailing 45-43 in the series decider.
Behind 22-17 at the middle break, the home side conceded more ground, before producing an unanswered seven-goal run that swung momentum their way.
Heading into the contest, Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua predicted the key to victory would be the ability to stay close enough for their traditional strong second-half surge to bring them home - and so it proved.
The trans-Tasman adversaries produced another torrid, physical battle, with Australia again dominating possession early, but the NZ shooters proving more accurate with their opportunities.
Maia Wilson again carried the scoring load, converting 36/40 (90 percent), with circle partner Ameliaranne Ekenasio filling more of a passer role. In fact, the skipper finished as her team's most effective circle-feeder, with 25 for the match.
The Ferns defence worked hard throughout to limit the young Diamonds shooters and the game hung in the balance until the final five minutes, when the Aussie midcourt was called for holding the ball too long.
That indiscretion allowed Wilson to slot three goals in succession, carrying her side three goals clear and they held their nerve over the final moments for victory.
New Zealand only needed a one-goal loss to snatch the trophy, but went better than that.
The result must now elevate the reigning world champions into the world No.1 ranking, still held by the Aussies entering this series.
NZ 45 (Wilson 36, Ekenasio 9) Australia 43 (Austin 28, Koenen 15)
