After failing to add to their meagre win record in Australia this summer, New Zealand are hoping a backyard ambush will be the next best thing when they take on Steve Smith's side in Wellington.
The first Test of the two-match cricket series begins at the Basin Reserve on Friday. It's the fourth of the rare situation of five Tests between the sides this season.
New Zealand, in good form and confident of beating their bigger brothers, were optimistic about their chances in Australia but returned chastened and reminded of their Test ranking of six after losing two of the three Tests.
Now they return to a green-tinged Basin, where seam bowlers Tim Southee and Trent Boult will hope they can undo Australia's batsmen, and the class of Kane Williamson and form of Martin Guptill will give them the totals for a series win.
Winning the opening one-day series 2-1 has given the Kiwis a little momentum but a crucial element will be winning the toss and skittling Australia's run machine with a bit of help from the pitch.
The last time Australia played at the Basin, in 2010, they won by 10 wickets, but no players remain from that side. In contrast, New Zealand have four: skipper Brendon McCullum, in-form opener Martin Guptill, keeper BJ Watling and seamer Tim Southee.
New Zealand will be eager to send off McCullum with a series win. He will retire after this series after playing 101 consecutive Tests since his debut in 2004, and since 2012 has proved a popular captain.
Australia are slight favourites to win but a full house at the Basin will be hoping New Zealand can add to their eight Test victories against Australia in 55 attempts since 1946.
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