England have survived a dramatic finale to claim a hard-fought draw on day five of the third Test against New Zealand in Auckland.

New Zealand started the day needing six wickets to claim victory, but met strong resistance from Joe Root and Ian Bell until just before lunch.

Three overs before lunch Trent Boult trapped Root with the new ball to claim lbw and give the Kiwis a chance.

Jonny Bairstow then fell to a catch from Ross Taylor at first slip, leaving Bell and Matt Prior to continue the fight.

Bell brought up 75 runs in a spirited display but was finally caught out when Tim Southee took a routine catch at third slip.

Prior refused to be broken and brought up a resolute century with less than two hours left to play.

Just as England looked safe, chaos ensured in the final three overs. First Stuart Broad's fine defensive efforts were undone by a clever delivery from Kane Williamson.

With two wickets in hand James Anderson went two balls later, leaving Monty Panesar to see out the final two overs with Prior.

Panesar was on strike for the final over but got a crucial single to pass the mantle back to Prior.

He clung on to finish with 111 runs and guide England to a draw that ensures the three-Test series with New Zealand finishes level.