Dunedin: A promotion in the batting order for Daniel Flynn set New Zealand on the path to a big score after opting to bat at the University Oval, but Flynn missing his hundred. He made 95 (188b, 12x4) lbw out by skipper Chris Gayle.

Flynn made the most of his chance after being promoted to number three in the batting order, reaching his maiden half century. The 23-year-old, playing just his eighth Test, survived the occasional streaky shot to play the anchor role.

The slow-paced University Oval wicket did not offer much help to the West Indies bowlers but New Zealand's batsmen helped the tourists' cause, giving away their wickets with poor shots.

Debutant opener Tim McIntosh 34 (110b, 5x4) played the early supporting role after recovering from a nervous start to reach 34, losing his wicket shortly after the lunch break after putting on 87 runs with Flynn.

Jesse Ryder 54* (92b, 7x4) played some characteristic cracking drives 61-run partnership with Flynn. New Zealand's opening partnership woes, which have seen a stream of batsmen come and go in recent seasons, continued with the early dismissal of How with the total on 10.

New Zealand, who won the toss and elected to bat, suffered an early blow when How departed in the sixth over, caught by Shivnarine Chanderpaul at point after attempting a loose drive off the bowling of Daren Powell.

Gayle has three wickets for 42 off 20 overs and Powell has one for 33 off 13.2 overs. Match closed on day one before 16.4 overs left, because bad light not permitted. At stumps wicket keeper McCullam 4* on crease with Ryder.

Brief Score: New Zealand 1st inning 226 for four (Flynn, Ryder 54*, Gayle 3/42, 73.2)
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