Australian Diamonds captain Caitlin Bassett lifts the Quad Series trophy ©Twitter

Australia showed why they are favourites for the Commonwealth Games gold medal at the Gold Coast in April with a 67-48 victory today over neighbours New Zealand at Ellis Park in Johannesburg to clinch the Quad Series title.

The win fell narrowly short of Australia’s highest ever total against New Zealand, when they scored 68 goals in a Test matches in 2012 and 2016. 

Australia reinforced their position as the world's top ranked country with this emphatic victory over the number two team.

It followed earlier victories against South Africa and England to win the Quad Series. 

"It was fantastic that everyone stood up," Australian Diamonds captain Caitlin Bassett said.

"It give us a lot of confidence for the Commonwealth Games."

Australia celebrate winning the Quad Series in Johannesburg with a 67-48 victory over New Zealand ©Twitter
Australia celebrate winning the Quad Series in Johannesburg with a 67-48 victory over New Zealand ©Twitter

Australia have won five of the six gold medals awarded at the Commonwealth Games, including Glasgow 2014 and are on course to make it six at Gold Coast 2018, due to start on April 4 and conclude on April 15. 

Australia ran into an early 17-9 lead as New Zealand struggled. 

The second period saw Australia extend their lead to 35-22, despite a series of basic errors.

By three quarter time the Diamonds had opened up a 17 goal lead before taking the game by 19 goals.

Shooter Te Paea Selby-Rickit was the highest scorer with 28 goals from 30 attempts.

England finished second in the Series as they beat hosts South Africa 52-47.