Aust oust NZ women at Dubai rugby sevens

Defending champions New Zealand are out of the main event at the Dubai round of the women's sevens series after a 15-12 quarter-final loss to Australia.

The Australian women's sevens rugby team have eliminated New Zealand with a 15-12 quarter-final win at the world series' opening round in Dubai.

Three-time series champions and winners of the Middle East tournament last year, New Zealand let slip a 12-0 lead on Friday as Australia came back with three unconverted tries.

Portia Woodman opened the scoring, crossing for her 99th career try on the world circuit after Gayle Broughton had set up the chance.

Broughton then turned scorer after a move involving Kelly Brazier, but the Australians cut the deficit just before halftime through Amy Turner.

In the second half, from a quick lineout, Charlotte Caslick touched down to make it a two-point game, before Ellia Green grabbed the decisive try for Australia.

The result came after New Zealand had made a shock start to the tournament, going down to Russia 33-7 in pool play.

They recovered with wins over Brazil and France to move into the last eight.