Controversial scenes have marred the finish of NPC's return, as Canterbury held on for a 20-19 victory over Waikato in Hamilton.
When the home side scored in the dying seconds through replacement back Tepaea Cook-Savage, first-five Fletcher Smith stepped up for a conversion that could have stolen a come-from-behind victory for the Mooloos.
But as Smith stepped back to start his kick, Canterbury players charged and the Waikato No.10 dragged his effort wide.
Despite Waikato protests, referee Cam Stone blew the final whistle, as Smith argued for another attempt.
The loss was Waikato's first of the 2021 season, but still has them atop the NPC's Premiership table, with 11 points from their opening three matches.
Canterbury jump up to second, one point ahead of third-placed Tasman, who could move to outright first with a victory over Northland on Saturday afternoon.
The NPC is resuming this weekend after a four-week break, since New Zealand's move to COVID-19 Alert Level 4 last month.
Canterbury 20 (Waisake Naholo, Henry Stowers, Fergus Burke tries; Burke conversion, penalty) Waikato 19 (Samipeni Finau, Sam Cooper, Tepaea Cook-Savage tries; Fletcher Smith 2 conversions)
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