The Premiership leaders Tasman have suffered their first provincial rugby loss of the season after they were beaten by Auckland 28-19 in Blenheim.
Auckland's Charles Piutau is tackled by a Tasman player, 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Tries by Joe Edwards and George Moala gave the visitors a 20-6 half-time lead before Vince Aso scored Auckland's third shortly after the break.
Joe Wheeler scored Tasman's only try while Marty Banks kicked four penalties for the home side.
Earlier on Sunday, Canterbury beat North Harbour 17-10 in Albany.
Canterbury player Luke Whitlock is tackled by North Harbour's Josh Blucher, 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Canterbury winger Johnny McNicholl scored the opening try before his hooker Ben Funnell crossed the line to give the visitors a 14-0 half time advantage.
Matt McGahan scored for Harbour in the second half.
