Wellington , March 3 (ANI): Australia's spin wizard Nathan Lyon dashed New Zealand's hopes early in the fourth day by taking ten wickets in the match, helping visitors claim a 172-run victory in the first Test at the Basin Reserve .

In a career that has seen myriad highlights, Lyon snared a rare first in a dominant morning that delivered Australia a thumping 172-run win in the first Test.

Following a thrilling comeback on the third day, New Zealand resumed at 111 for 3, looking daunting at the target of 369 with a nearly full house anticipating a surprise attack.

However, Lyon ended New Zealand's resistance with the wickets of Rachin Ravindra, Tom Blundell, and Glenn Phillips in two overs following a calm start, with the surface looking to be playing a little easier than the first three days. Daryl Mitchell stood his ground in vain, watching wickets fall at the other end, and was the final batsman to be removed for 38 off 130 balls.

Lyon was Australia's match-winner once again, finishing with 6 for 65 and match figures of 10-108 on a surface that turned and bounced sharply.

Lyon was the star performer along with Cameron Green, whose masterful unbeaten 174 in the first innings was remarkable on a bowler-friendly surface.

Earlier on Day 3, a fighting half-century by Rachin Ravindra keeps New Zealand alive. Kiwis ended the day three at 111/3, with Ravindra (56*) unbeaten with Daryl Mitchell (12*) on the other side.

Australia started the day three at 13/2, with Nathan Lyon (6*) and Usman Khawaja unbeaten. The duo struck some fine boundaries and took Australia beyond the 50-run mark. Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips struck, removing both for 41 and 28 respectively.