Rugby sevens: NZ thrash Cook Islands

Frank Halai of New Zealand is tackled. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand predictably maintained their unbeaten record on day one of the world rugby sevens series in Adelaide today, thrashing the Cook Islands 40-7 in another one-sided pool A encounter.

The series leaders scored in all but one visit inside the Cook Islander's 22-metre zone as they laid on six touchdowns before conceding a consolation try after the final hooter.

Toby Arnold led the way with a hattrick while Scott Curry notched a double - including a 60m surge after he caught the restart to the second half.

Encouraged after holding the favoured Kenyans to 19-12 in their opening game, the Cook Islanders paid the penalty for a high unforced error count.

Arnold crossed for the first time via a scrum after the underdogs spilled the opening kick-off; a set piece was also the catalyst for his second after poor handling again gifted the New Zealanders possession.

Solomon King rounded out a ruthless first half performance from a scrum turnover to produce a 19-0 lead.

Arnold completed his treble either side of Curry's brace while Turori Matutu provided some relief for the Cook Islanders when he loomed in support of Koiatu Koiatu to complete an impressive break out from deep in their territory.

Earlier New Zealand opened their campaign with a 36-10 win over Wales who were only able to breach the defensive line either side of the break when captain DJ Forbes was in the sin bin.

Tim Mikkelson notched a second half double to quell any hopes of a Welsh upset after New Zealand lead 21-5 at halftime.

Playmaker Tomasi Cama also scored in the second spell to extend his career points haul to 1120, just four behind New Zealand's current record holder Amasio Valence.

New Zealand complete their pool play against Kenya at 2206 (NZT).

New Zealand 40 (Toby Arnold 3, Scott Curry 2, Solomon King tries; Buxton Popoalii 5 con) Cook Islands 7 (Turori Matutu try; Koiatu Koiatu con). Halftime: 19-0.

- NZPA