Steven Smith's unbeaten 131 has put Australia back in the driving seat on day four of the second Test against New Zealand in Perth.

The Black Caps began the day on 510-6 in their second innings following a record-breaking double century from Ross Taylor.

The 31-year-old, who made history by reaching the highest-ever score that a New Zealander has hit against Australia, continued his positive form on day four.

However, wickets began to tumble around him as the day progressed, with Mark Craig (15), Matt Henry (6) and Tim Southee (21) all leaving the field.

Taylor was eventually sent packing off the bowling of Nathan Lyon, but he returned to the pavilion with an impressive knock of 290, which helped New Zealand to a first-innings total of 624.

Australia suffered an early wobble in their second innings as Joe Burns was dismissed for a duck by Southee inside the third over, while David Warner, who hit a maiden double Test century on day one of the Test, was also dealt a blow.

The 29-year-old, who became the first Australian to score three centuries twice in a row on Friday, left the field just four runs short of a half century after he was caught out by Tom Latham off Trent Boult's delivery.

The hosts seemed to be in trouble at 46-2, but Smith and Adam Voges were able to steady the attack and swing the momentum back in Australia's direction.

Smith reached his 12th Test century, his first ever in a second innings and he also became only the fourth Australian captain to reach the feat at the WACA.

Voges also impressed as he reached his second Test century before closing the day unbeaten on 101 off 180 balls, while Smith reached stumps on 131 not out after facing 170 deliveries.

Australia, who are 258-2, have a 193-run lead heading into day five of the second Test.

The Aussies have a 1-0 lead in the series.