Australia Secondary Schools got off to a fast start, with Charlie Taylor scoring their first try.
Shortly after they were back again, Jayden Nikorima this time crossing the line in what would be his first try of two for the day.
Down 12-nil, NZ finally got possession, scoring in the corner through Mac Carson.
But Australia hit back, with Cheyne Whitelaw scoring under the posts and his team adding another two tries to end the half 28-6.
Behind by 12, NZ narrowed the gap to six points after crossing the line again. With 10 minutes to go, Australia scored again to lead by 10 points.
However, NZ's never-say-die attitude saw them score an excellent try to put the score at 28-32 to Australia.
In the final minute, this could have been the winning try for NZ, but they couldn't quite get there, and Australia secured the win.