The Hurricanes got their campaign back on track when they secured a 29‑14 victory over the Reds in Wellington.
The home side outscored their visitors five tries to one although things didn't always go their way and they held a slender 12‑6 lead at halftime.
The try‑scoring bonus‑point keeps them in touch with the leaders in the New Zealand conference and they are just a point adrift of the Crusaders, Chiefs and Highlanders, who are in joint first place on 37 points.
With Hurricanes stalwarts Cory Jane, Victor Vito, Chris Eves, Julian and Ardie Savea axed for missing a curfew in South Africa.
In other matches, the Waratahs thrashed the Bulls 31-8, the Cheetahs defeated the Kings 34-20, the Lions smashed the Blues 43-5, Sharks edged the Jaguares 25-22 while the Sunwolves and Stormers were tied 17 all.
Source: sanzarrugby.com
