New Zealand's bowlers made the first inroads on their Australian tour today when they chipped away at Queensland in the tour match at the Gabba.

At tea on the third day, Queensland was 7-328 in its first innings, still trailing the Black Caps by 116 runs.

The Bulls were in control at 3-271 before the Black Caps took the second new ball, sparking a fall of 4-39.

Chris Cairns (3-68) was the most successful bowler, removing an uncertain Clinton Perren (34) before enticing Wade Seccombe (one) to edge a legside catch to wicketkeeper Adam Parore.

Powerful Queenslander Andrew Symonds (46) threatened to tear into the New Zealanders before Shayne O'Connor (1-43) teased him into a miscued drive, presenting substitute fielder Lou Vincent with a catch at cover.

The Black Caps need to finish the Queenslanders off to boost their spirits before the Test series begins against Australia on Thursday.

But they have to get through Bulls captain Stuart Law (31 not out) and gritty tailender Ashley Noffke (five not out), who added 16 runs before the tea break.

© 2001 AAP