NZ v England cricket test: Eden Park 'magnificent' ahead of play despite rain

Eden Park is ready for play despite the rain that dampened day three of the historic pink ball test in New Zealand between the Black Caps and England.

Eden Park CEO Nick Sautner said the weather had been outside of their control but the grounds looked "magnificent" this morning ahead of play.

"The drone footage taken earlier this morning demonstrates why we are consistently rated one of the best playing surfaces in the world – a real Garden of Eden."

An "enormous effort" was made by the entire Eden Park team to plan events of this calibre and that had been exceeded given challenges with the resource consent approval process, he said.

Eden Park had once again showcased its ability to capture a global broadcast audience and in so doing delivered significant economic benefits to Auckland and its communities, he said.

"We encourage all Aucklanders to be part of this historic event to make their way down to Eden Park, even those who may not have previously attended any form of cricket."

A highlight in the Test so far had been Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson claiming a record winning 18th century.

He overtook Ross Taylor and Martin Crowe to take the top spot on Friday.

Williamson was modest about the achievement and said he did not focus too much on statistics or individual milestones.

He just wanted to do his bit for the team, he said.

"[The hundred] wasn't the focus of the day. It would've been nice to still be out there after what the bowlers did in the first innings."

"That's why it's frustrating not to still be out there… but it was a fairly good delivery.

"Guys have put in tough yards to lay platforms and build partnerships."

Play was scheduled to resume this afternoon.