New Zealand lead Pakistan by 55 runs with 10 second-innings wickets in hand after heavy rain forced an early end to the third day of the second Test in Hamilton on Sunday.

Playing in only his second Test match, Babar Azam was left stranded on 90 not out as he top scored for the tourists, while Black Caps paceman Tim Southee took six wickets for 80, his third-best return in Tests.

New Zealand faced just one delivery in their second innings, without scoring a run, when the rain returned and the umpires abandoned play for the day after two previous disruptions.

Only 38.1 overs were bowled in total, and only six balls were completed in the second session of a day highlighted by Babar's impressive display and Pakistan's fightback.

If New Zealand earn at least a draw in this Test, it will be enough for the Kiwis to complete a first series win over Pakistan since 1985.