Martin Guptill's unbeaten century helped put New Zealand on top in the first one-day international against England at Lord's on Friday.
Guptill hit 103 off 123 balls to inspire his side to a score of 5-231 and take the upper hand in the series after the hosts could only muster 227 when batting first.
Despite a lack of big scores from their middle order - Jonathan Trott top scored with just 37 - England still posted a competitive total.
And after New Zealand's first over at the crease, it looked as though the home side would be able to build on their success in the recent Test match series with another win.
James Anderson, who finished with figures of 3-31, began impressively with the ball and dismissed former Australia international Luke Ronchi and Kane Williamson for ducks within five balls as the visitors got off to a disastrous start.
However, the partnership of Guptill and Ross Taylor - worth 120 - steadied the ship with the former's impressive knock eventually proving to be the difference.
Taylor was caught by Jos Buttler off the bowling of Anderson for 54, while Grant Elliot kept the chase ticking along with a contribution of 27.
Brendon McCullum could only add five before he was dismissed but Guptill upped the ante in a knock that included eight fours and four sixes while James Franklin chipped in with 16 to secure victory.
The win puts New Zealand 1-0 ahead of the second ODI at The Ageas Bowl on Sunday.