South Africa's victory over New Zealand was their fourth at this World Cup ©Getty Images

South Africa have maintained their unbeaten record at the International Cricket Council Women’s Cricket World Cup with a tense last over two-wicket victory over host nation New Zealand in Hamilton.

The South Africans chased down a victory target of 229.

The New Zealand innings was founded on the efforts of skipper Sophie Devine who struck a superb 93.

When Devine was finally dismissed in the 41st over with the score 198-5, it triggered a batting collapse as the last five White Ferns wickets fell for only 30 runs.

Pace bowlers Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka both finished with three wickets, supported by the tournament's leading wicket taker Marizanne Kapp who claimed two further victims.

South Africa appeared to be cruising when Laura Wolvaardt and Lune Suus put on 88 for the third wicket.

Marizanne Kapp's unbeaten 34 was instrumental in South Africa's two-wicket victory over New Zealand ©Getty Images
Marizanne Kapp's unbeaten 34 was instrumental in South Africa's two-wicket victory over New Zealand ©Getty Images

Wolvaardt departed for 67 and when Suus also went for 51, it triggered some South African nerves, but all-rounder Kapp kept hers intact as wickets tumbled around her.

Her unbeaten 34 in 35 balls proved vital in seeing the side through to victory with only three balls to spare.

Her all round performance earned her the player of the match award.

It was the first time South Africa had beaten New Zealand at the Women's Cricket World Cup.

The result puts them level on points with Australia at the top of the standings and in a strong position for a place in the last four.

Hosts New Zealand face holders England in Auckland on Sunday (March 20) in a match that will see the losers face probable elimination from the competition.