The men's team were first up in South Africa where they edged their way into the semi-final with a fiercely contested 12-5 win over Argentina.

The defending champions were shocked early on by German Schulz who crossed the line to score the opening try after three minutes.

Santiago Vera Feld was unable to add an additional two points though as he squandered the resulting conversion.

It took just two minutes for New Zealand to level the score as Scott Curry put up five points before Akuila Rokolisoa made it 7-5 with a successful shot at goal before half-time.

Moses Leo then provided a moment of magic as he gathered a loose ball before exhibiting his blistering pace to evade four defenders and score New Zealand's second try of the game.

Rokolisoa missed the conversion but it did not matter as his side held firm in defence to secure a semi-final place.

It was a much simpler task for New Zealand's women as they sauntered into the final four with a 28-0 triumph over Ireland.

A Niall Williams try and Risi Pouri-Lane conversion after two minutes meant the Kiwis went into the break with a slender 7-0 lead, keeping Irish hopes alive.

However, three tries in seven minutes from Portia Woodman, Alena Saili and Shiray Kaka put the game beyond doubt in the second half.

Both tournament's are set to conclude tomorrow as the semi-finals kick-off at midday local time tomorrow before the bronze and gold-medal matches in the evening.