Needing just two runs to win, James Anderson was caught off Neil Wagner as England came up just short in the game they looked certain to win.
England started the 5th day at 48-1 needing just 210 runs b behind New Zealand, a seemingly easy task after declaring 435 for 8 in the first innings. Yet England quickly fell to 80-5 including a clumsy run out of Harry Brook for which blame lies with Joe Root. A disappointing end to a successful tour for Brook who has firmly etched his place as part of this exciting England side.
England could have had the game sewn up by day 5 but for a classy Kiwi comeback in the 2nd innings. New Zealand posted a second-innings score of 483 including a fantastic 132 from Kane Williamson.
However, England regressed to a familiar of old with Joe Root saving them with the bat once again with 95 from just 113 balls.
Ultimately, solid performances from England's lower batting order proved to be in vain as England fell agonisingly short of the 258 required.
"Everybody got their money's worth," said Captain Stokes and New Zealand's opposite number concurred, "a fantastic game of cricket" said Kane Williamson who was also awarded player of the match.
This loss should not take away from a thoroughly successful tour Down Under. Ahead of the Ashes in the summer, England has an established style and are in strong form. A record of 9 wins in 11 under Head Coach Brendan Mccullum represents a far cry from the one win in 17 tests that preceded.
