Teenager Tim Payne bagged a brace for New Zealand in a 2-0 win over the Soloman Islands in Honiara on Tuesday.
New Zealand rested a host of players on yellow cards due to the threat of suspension, having already secured an intercontinental playoff against the fourth-ranked CONCACAF nation in November.
Blackburn Rovers striker Payne struck in the 89th minute after opening the scoring in the third, to ensure New Zealand won all six of their Oceania World Cup qualifying clashes.
Ian Hogg picked up a caution in the 12th minute which sees him suspended for the first playoff match.
Australian-born Andrew Durante made his New Zealand debut after lingering issues over his eligibility.
In the other Oceania qualifier, New Caledonia defeated Tahiti 1-0 through Cesar Lolohea’s 86th-minute strike.
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