Lewis prevented any chance of a final day collapse

New Zealand's women comfortably held out for a draw on the final day of the one-off Test against England.

A halt was called in mid-afternoon at Scarborough as rain returned with the White Ferns 149-3 in their second innings, a lead of 79.

Skipper Maia Lewis made 60, including 10 fours, while debutant Kathryn Brunt took 2-36 for England.

The home side had the consolation, however, of having won the one-day series 3-2 earlier this month.

Having led by 70 on first innings, thanks to centuries by Charlotte Edwards (117) and Laura Newton (103), England's bid to repeat last year's Test win over South Africa were effectively ended by the third day-washout.

They resumed knowing only a rapid collapse by New Zealand and good luck with the weather could revive their hopes.

Isa Guha had Paula Flannery caught behind for 18 but by the time Maria Fahey was bowled by Brunt for 39, the tourists had wiped out their first innings deficit.

Haidee Tiffen kept Lewis company for an hour and a half in a third wicket stand of 69 and she was still there on 26 when the half was finally called.

England Women: C M Edwards, L K Newton, R A Birch, C J Connor (Capt), L Greenway, A Brindle, J L Gunn, J Smit (Wkt), K Brunt, I T Guha, L C Pearson.