Morkel recovered after conceding 24 runs off a single over

South Africa warmed up for their Test series in New Zealand with a tense draw against Central Districts in Napier.

Set 272 to win, the home side ended the day 195-8, with fielders crowded around the bat of tailender Michael Mason.

Neil McKenzie had earlier followed up his first innings century with 49 not out before South Africa captain Mark Boucher declared on on 224-7.

After a slow start, a whirlwind 35 off 18 deliveries by promising batsman Ross Taylor ignited the home side's innings.

After conceding 24 off his fourth over, Albie Morkel was on a hat-trick in the next over.

The all-rounder had Mathew Sinclair caught at second slip by Martin van Jaarsveld and trapped home skipper Glen Sulzberger in front first ball.

Taylor went in the next over from David Terbrugge and the home side had gone from 82-2 to 83-5.

A 45-run partnership for the sixth wicket between Jarrod Englefield and Bevan Griggs helped Central on the way to survival, but two wickets in an over brought them to the brink again.

South Africa coach Eric Simons was pleased with the workout before the first Test, which starts in Hamilton on Wednesday.

"We realised the wicket wasn't like anything we are likely to face in Hamilton, but all the bowlers got good spells and looked tidy enough," Simons said.

"We gave both spinners (Nicky Boje and Paul Adams) extended spells, even though we knew they would take some stick.

"There is still the option of playing both in the Test, but that will depend on the track."