Pattinson's strikes put Aussies in charge of second Test against Kiwis

James Pattinson snared three wickets as Australia continued to remain dominant on the third day of the second and the final Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Monday.

At stumps, New Zealand had reached 121 for four in their second innings, with retiring skipper Brendon McCullum was the final wicket to fall on the day three.

McCullum was dismissed for a final time after contributing 25 runs. He was snared by Josh Hazlewood. The hosts are still trailing by 14 runs.

Kane Williamson and Corey Anderson were unbeaten at 45 and nine respectively and the duo will resume play on the fourth day, news.com.au reported.

Meanwhile, Pattinson was the pick of the bowlers for Australia. He gave a perfect start to his side by dismissing opener Martin Guptill for a 12-ball duck.

Pattinson then broke the partnership between opener Tom Latham and Williamson before taking his final wicket of the day of Henry Nicholls (two).

Earlier, Australia posted their first innings score of 505 runs, thanks to opener Joe Burns and skipper Steve Smith for their brilliant 170 and 138 runs respectively.

Australia are currently leading the two-match Test series one-nil.