Rachin Ravindra and Tom Latham have posted New Zealand's highest third-wicket batting partnership against the West Indies to dominate on the third day of the opening cricket test in Christchurch

The Black Caps have moved to 417 for four which extends their lead to 481 and has their bowlers rested and poised to strike.

Latham offered chanceless discipline across the carpeted outfield on his way to 145, a 14th test ton and his first in 40 innings.

Ravindra presented flair and flow as he freed his arms as part of 176, a fourth test hundred after offering catches on eight and 13.

Their 279-run stand eclipses the 241 from Martin Crowe and John Wright at Wellington in 1987.