Kane Williamson and Tom Latham helped New Zealand overcome the loss of an early wicket to share in an unbeaten 85-run partnership at lunch on the opening day of the first Test against the West Indies.
Williamson was on 39 and Latham 45 as New Zealand reached 1-99 in Hamilton.
The toss was delayed for almost two hours due to a wet playing area after morning rain.
West Indies captain Jason Holder called correctly and eagerly chose to bowl on a pitch so well-grassed it blended with the outfield.
Williamson and Latham both built almost chanceless innings with good plans and technique.
NZ captain Williamson typically played the ball late and with soft hands to take the danger out of any rising delivery.
Latham left well on a length, showing sound judgment on most occasions.
The only batsman dismissed in the first session was Will Young, trapped LBW by Shannon Gabriel for five after facing 11 balls.
Australian Associated Press
