LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a stunning upset, the Jillaroos' remarkable 15-game winning streak was snapped by the Kiwis in the Pacific Championship clash in Melbourne.
The loss marks the end of Australia's seven-year dominance over New Zealand in rugby league.
Rookie Kiwi winger Leianne Tufuga emerged as the hero of the match, scoring her first international try with just seven minutes remaining on the clock to break the 6-6 deadlock and secure the victory for the Kiwis.
The Jillaroos had not tasted defeat against their trans-Tasman rivals since 2016 and had been unbeaten in their last 15 matches against all opponents.
New Zealand had shown promise in their previous encounter, only losing 16-10 in Townsville, which boosted their confidence heading into this game.
With no women's final or a third Test scheduled, the teams finished level on points differential, adding to the intensity of the match.
Despite losing their first-half tryscorer, Mele Hufanga, to a head injury assessment, the Kiwis fought back, ultimately sealing the win with Tufuga's try.
The crucial conversion was successfully executed by veteran halfback Raecene McGregor, who expressed her elation after the game.