Worcestershire 2019 signing Martin Guptill scored his third century in four innings after making the switch from limited overs to red ball cricket.
Guptill, who has re-signed with the Rapids for the bulk of the Vitality Blast, hit 120 for Auckland on day one of the Plunket Shield clash with Northern Districts in Whangarei.
It followed on from his back to back hundreds for New Zealand in the ODI Series against visiting Bangladesh.
Guptill’s efforts helped leaders Auckland to close the day on 301-5 from 96 overs.
The 32-year-old played in free-flowing style and faced only 143 balls in striking three sixes and 12 fours.
He added 190 in 50 overs for the second wicket with Sean Solia (75).
Guptill, available for 11 of the Rapids Vitality Blast group games plus potential quarter-finals and finals day, batted for a total of 258 minutes.
He was eventually third out with the total on 218.
Guptill and Auckland have resumed the Plunket Shield competition with three wins, one defeat and one draw from their opening five matches.
