Day three of the opening Test between New Zealand and England ground to a halt as just 17 balls were bowled before a second spell of rain ended the day's action.

The hosts, who had reached 229-4 with a lead of 171 before rain affected day two, mustered only four more runs this time round before the umpires took the players off due to the weather.

The best of the action came as BJ Watling kept his place at the crease after Chris Woakes's effort at a run-out narrowly missed the stumps, although there was little else of note on day three.

With a total of 25 overs possible in the last two days, both sides will be looking for more action on Sunday, when day four of the Test kicks off.

England collapsed on the opening day, being bowled out for just 58 runs as New Zealand added the majority of their current advantage.