Four months ago, the Silver Ferns perpetrated one of international netball's biggest mid-game collapses, turning a double-figure advantage into a five-goal loss against England at Christchurch.
It's a new year, but the same result, as the Roses staged another stirring comeback - on home soil this time - to snatch victory away from the NZ women 49-46 in their Northern Quad Series clash at London.
Pouncing early, New Zealand led 16-10 after the opening quarter and extended that margin out to eight goals midway through the second period, before a five-minute scoreless drought that allowed their opponents back within a goal.
Tied 25-25 at halftime, the rivals wrestled for ascendancy over the next half hour, with England leading by as many as six in the final quarter and the Ferns unable to break their grip on the game.
After capitulating to Australia in their tournament opener on Sunday, New Zealand cannot make the final, which will be contested between England and Australia, and now face two match against South Africa to complete their London schedule.
"We were much more solid overall with regards to our strategy," reflects coach Dame Noeline Taurua. "It's definitely an improvement from yesterday and we can take some solid things out.
"Don't like losing - I'm putting that out there - but I think we definitely did improve."
Without many of her veteran stars - either retired or on maternity leave - from the World Cup triumph two years ago, Taurua has had to give extended court-time to previously reserve players and inexperienced rookies.
That exposure to international pressure has probably taken a toll on the newcomers, as well as others who have not played at this level for several years.
"We really went away from our structures," admits Taurua. "That's still the learning that needs to happen in this group - how we can hold and weather the storm."
By contrast, England had the luxury of introducing their most-capped players - midcourt Jade Clarke - during that second quarter to spark the comeback.
Shooter Maia Wilson continued her improved form, slotting 32/36 attempts (89 percent), while Tiana Metuarau rebounded strongly among the tall timber under goal.
But England enjoyed the benefits of a more balanced attack, with George Fisher and Helen Housby shooting goal for goal at the other end.
England 49 (Fisher 25/28, Housby 24/25) NZ 46 (Wilson 32/36, Nweke 10/15, Metuarau 4/5)
