Jonny Bairstow struck another brutal century for England as his record-breaking seventh-wicket partnership with debutant Jamie Overton completely turned the game on its head.
England were in serious trouble when the pair came together at 55-6, but they proceeded to share an unbeaten 209-run partnership to push the hosts up to 264-6 at the close of play. The day began with Daryl Mitchell scoring his third hundred of the series as New Zealand posted a first innings total of 329.
Jack Leach picked up 5-100 for England, rewarding Ben Stokes ' show of faith in the spinner. In response, Trent Boult began brilliantly with the new ball for New Zealand, clean bowling England's entire top three.