Ricky Januarie's late try meant South Africa ended their 10-year duck in New Zealand as they secured a dramatic 30-28 win.A try from JP Pietersen and Butch James' drop-goal had given the visitors a narrow 17-15 lead at half-time but Sione Lauaki's score and Carter's kicking put the All Blacks in front in the second half before Januarie got over to secure the Tri-Nations points.
It was a quiet start to the game from both teams as neither tryline came under much pressure in the opening half hour with the hosts outscoring the visitors on penalties - Carter kicking four to Percy Montgomery's three.
However, a defining moment came on the 30-minute mark as New Zealand lock Ali Williams, eventually decided he could not continue after an earlier clash of heads and he was replaced by young Kevin O'Neill.
New Zealand were in disarray at the very next line-out and from the resulting scrum Pietersen went over. James's drop-goal added to the lead before another Carter penalty put South Africa in touch just before the ref blew for half time.
However, New Zealand started the second half brighter and Lauaki deservedly got his name on the scoresheet after some sustained pressure.
James kept up the pressure on the hosts with two more converted penalties but Carter's inventive drop-goal again gifted New Zealand a narrow advantage.
The game was set up for a dramatic finale as the referee yellow carded Victor Matfield for a high tackle and immediately Januarie took full advantage, collecting his own chip to score.
Replacement Francois Steyn put over the conversion to give South Africa a narrow lead and with time running out Carter was unable to find his mark with two drop goal attempts, to ensure it was the South Africans celebrating as full time came.
