Australia secured a convincing 2-0 series win over New Zealand in the second Test at Christchurch, wrapping things up before tea on day four. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey's unbeaten 98 and a crucial partnership with Mitchell Marsh proved decisive in the thrilling chase of 279 runs.

New Zealand started strong, taking four wickets late on day three to put the tourists under pressure. Rain delayed the start of day four, but skipper Tim Southee struck early with the dismissal of Travis Head. A dropped catch by Rachin Ravindra, however, proved costly as Marsh went on to make a vital 80 runs.

Carey and Marsh steadied the ship with a 140-run stand, silencing the home crowd and taking control of the chase. Both faced nervous moments with reviews and close calls, but ultimately navigated the pressure. Despite losing Marsh and Mitchell Starc after lunch, Carey continued his determined knock and found a resolute partner in captain Pat Cummins.

The New Zealand bowlers toiled away but couldn't find the breakthroughs needed. Carey fell two runs short of a well-deserved century but guided Australia home alongside Cummins to seal their sixth win in seven Tests this summer.

This victory propels Australia to second place in the World Test Championship standings, while New Zealand's wait for a home win against their trans-Tasman rivals extends to 31 years. Carey, who also matched Adam Gilchrist's record of 10 catches in the series, was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance. Although Matt Henry bagged the Player of the Series award for his 17 wickets, New Zealand were left disappointed after a valiant fightback.