Australia lost the first game of a four-test series to New Zealand, going down 1-0 in Dunedin.

Despite dominating the majority of the match the Hockeyroos were unable to capitalize in attack with nothing to show for their 57 circle penetrations and nine shots on goal to New Zealand's 35 and eight.

They had their chances but some very strong goalkeeping from Beth Jurgeleit denied them a goal, while a defensive error cost them a goal when New Zealand were awarded a penalty corner and Kate Saunders powered a strike past Toni Cronk for the only score of the match.

"It was an even, tough, hard fought game," said national coach, Frank Murray.

"We were unable to match the intensity of New Zealand in the first 15 minutes and were punished for a moment of indiscipline in defense. At 1-0 down we were unable to claw back despite numerous opportunities in the second half."

The Hockeyroos play game two of the four-test series on Tuesday night in Oamaru before heading to Christchurch for games three and four on Saturday and Sunday. 

Source: Hockey Australia