Perth: Tim Paine's victorious Australians are expecting the Trans-Tasman fight to resemble the legendary Bodyline series after the hosts thrashed New Zealand in a bruising first Test.

Batsmen from both sides were bombarded with a barrage of bumpers during a brutal encounter as fire and brimstone cricket returned to the west.

More than half the 39 wickets to fall at Optus Stadium came from short-pitched bowling on a lively Optus Stadium deck, bringing back memories of the fiery WACA surfaces of yesteryear.

Matthew Wade was struck on the thumb by Black Caps enforcer Neil Wagner during a torrid spell on Sunday, while BJ Watling was hit on the grill by a nasty lifter from Pat Cummins. Both men were able to bat on.