Brisbane: Australia's hopes of wrapping up the first Test against New Zealand on day four were ruined when a rain storm washed out the final session in Brisbane on Sunday.
Chasing an improbable target of 504, the tourists were 142 for three at tea. However, rain ensured that New Zealand get a fighting chance to escaping the Gabba.
New Zealand are currently trailing by 362 runs with Ross Taylor (20) and skipper Brendon McCullum (4) remaining unbeaten at the crease.
Earlier, Australia had declared their second innings on 264-4 but an obdurate batting display by the tourists foiled the Steven Smith-led side's hopes of securing a quick victory.
Kane Williamson scored a fluent 59 to add to his first innings score of 140 before being trapped lbw by Nathan Lyon, who also dismissed a stubborn Martin Guptill for 23.
Brief scores
Australia - 4//556 dec and 4/264 dec (Burns 129, Warner 116, Craig 3-78)
New Zealand - 317 (Williamson 140, Starc 4-57, Johnson 3-105) and 3/142 (Williamson )
Status - New Zealand need another 362 runs to win