Despite being shot out for 95 and 111 in the 1st Test, Dean Elgar took the bold call of batting first.

It was a move that paid dividends as Elgar and Sarel Erwee put on 111 for the first wicket.

Erwee copped a painful blow to his box but batted on serenely.

Tim Southee gave the hosts their first wicket when he castled Elgar for 41.

Erwee scored his maiden Test hundred with a pulled four off Neil Wagner just before Tea.

Aiden Markram scored a patient 42 in a 88-run stand with Erwee.

Neil Wagner gave New Zealand the second breakthrough by dismissing Markram.

Erwee's fine innings ended on 108 when he edged a Matt Henry delivery to the 'keeper.

Temba Bavuma was unbeaten on 22 as South Africa went to Stumps on the opening day at 238 for 3.