New Zealand battled to a 27-6 victory against a dogged Italy in Christchurch.

It was not pretty and followed two average performances against the French which will have coach Graham Henry, who read the riot act at half-time, concerned heading into the Tri-Nations tournament against Australia and South Africa which begins next month.

New Zealand scored just one try - through Joe Rokocoko - in the first half to lead 13-3 after a shaky opening 40 minutes.

Further tries for Isaac Ross and his Crusaders team-mate George Whitelock - on debut - finally gave the home side some breathing space but it was far from a vintage performance against a team they have hammered in recent encounters.