The Silver Ferns have sealed third place at netball's Northern Quad Series, holding out for a thrilling 51-50 victory against South Africa at London's Copper Box Arena.
Exactly 24 hours after a 54-43 win over the same opposition for their first victory of the tournament, Dame Noeline Taurua's side faced a tougher test from the Proteas and had to work for their second consecutive win.
Led by shooter Maia Wilson (39/44), the Ferns entered the final period down 39-38, but rallied to deny South Africa their second-ever victory over New Zealand.
Wilson was backed by youngster Tiana Metuarau (12/14), and a strong defensive effort in the final quarters by Sulu Fitzpatrick and Phoenix Karaka - both of whom came on as second-quarter substitutes for Kelly Jury and Kayla Johnson.
South Africa's advantage came despite the Ferns taking a lead from the opening two quarters, ahead 28-25 at the break, but an outstanding third quarter that saw the Proteas outclass New Zealand 14-10.
The Ferns were able to claim victory in the final 15 minutes, winning the last quarter 13-11 to sneak home by a single goal.
In the opposing shooting circle, South Africa's Ine-Mari Venter was outstanding, missing just once with 35 from 36 attempts. Lefebre Rademan also impressed at goal attack, finishing with 15/21.
Despite the victory, the performance - and that through the entire Quad Series - has given the Silver Ferns and Dame Noeline plenty to work on before Birmingham.
New Zealand hope to recover from the 2018 Gold Coast Games, where they finished outside the medals for the first time.
Silver Ferns 51 (Maia Wilson 39/44, Tiana Metuarau 12/14) South Africa 50 (Ine-Mari Venter 35/36, Lefebre Rademan 15/21)
