Northland have just one more defence before they can tuck the Ranfurly Shield away for the summer, after seeing off Waikato in Whangārei.
The Taniwha's magic season continued on Saturday as they defended the log o' wood in dominant fashion, hammering the moo-loos 34-17.
Australian import Lachlan Hooper opened the scoring for Northland, before Waikato flyer Dan Sinkinson responded for the Mooloos.
Taha Kemara pushed the conversion wide in trying kicking conditions, to leave Northland in front, a lead they stretched courtesy of a contentious try to halfback Sam Nock.
After a Northland maul splintered, Nock weaved through the mess to dot down as the Waikato players pleaded for an obstruction call which never came.
Rivez Reihana nailed a penalty on the siren, to send his side to half-time with a 15-5 lead.
The Tani's extended their advantage shortly after oranges through James Ramm, but Waikato weren't done, Tepaea Cook-Savage keeping his side in touch with a spectacular finish in the corner.
A second for Hooper put Northland 17 points in front with 15 to play, before Brady Rush sealed the result after Corey Evans stabbed through a grubber, which sat up perfectly for his winger.
Waikato would pick up a late consolation through replacement hooker Sean Ralph.
The win marks the first time Northland have ever beaten Waikato in a shield match, and extends their tenure to two successful defences.
Northland's one remaining shield defence will come against Counties Manukau, on September 26.
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