The Kiwis opened their Pool D campaign in Kazakhstan’s capital by overcoming the Philippines 21-11 and then went on to beat Spain 21-17.

Spain had earlier registered a 21-15 victory over Hungary, who started their quest for glory with a 13-7 win over Brazil.

The South Americans bounced back from that defeat to down the Philippines, 20-14.

Slovenia and Uruguay lead the way in Pool A after preserving unblemished records from their first two outings.

Belgium suffered 14-18 defeats at the hands of both nations, with Slovenia going on to beat Egypt 22-9 and Uruguay having already triumphed 19-13 against The Netherlands.

The Dutch recovered to secure a 20-9 victory Egypt, who, like Belgium, are without a win so far. 

In the women’s draw, holders France showed they do not intend to relinquish their title easily by beating Andorra, 21-6, and Tunisia, 19-9, in Pool C.

Joining them at the top of the standings with two victories in as many matches is China after they overcame Tunisia, 15-13, and the United Arab Emirates, 21-5.

Despite losing against France, Andorra got off the mark with a 21-3 win over the UAE.

Last year’s silver medallists the United States will be looking to go one better this time round, but they experienced mixed fortunes in their first two Pool B encounters.

A 21-15 victory against Poland was preceded by a 13-21 loss against The Netherlands.

Hosts Kazakhstan edged the Dutch 12-11 before going on to suffer a 21-6 defeat against Italy.

Poland had earlier beaten Italy 15-8 meaning all five teams are level on one win from two matches.

Action in Astana is due to continue tomorrow as Pools B and C in the men’s competition, and Pools A and D in the women’s competition, resume.