A virtuoso performance from skipper Darren Lockyer and a stunning five-minute burst early in the second half powered Australia to a heart-stopping 28-26 win over New Zealand in their Tri-Nations match in Auckland.

Having said before the match that the game would "make or break" his side's hopes of defending its Tri-Nations title, Lockyer took it upon himself to get the Kangaroos over the line, scoring two tries and setting up three others in a display which had coach Wayne Bennett scratching his head to find one better.

"It's the best game I've seen him play probably since Origin at the start of this year," said Bennett, who was relieved to get his first coaching win since July.

"He played some good games leading up to Origin, but it's certainly the best game I've see him play (since)."

The Aussies did it the hard way, falling behind 16-8 at halftime before coming out full of running after the break with three tries in the space of five minutes to put the home side on the back foot.

Lockyer played a part in all three four-pointers, but it was his pass to Mark Gasnier for the first four minutes after the resumption which was the most instrumental.

Running to the line before setting up his support player, Lockyer sent Gasnier on a 50-metre run to the line which gave the visitors the self belief they needed to go on with the job.

"The ball he gave to Gasnier for Gasnier's try ... I haven't seen that for a long time," Bennett said.

"The five-eighth gave the ball at the right time to a back who can back himself one on one. That makes a difference.

"He holds it a touch longer, he (Gasnier) doesn't get the opportunity."

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