New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori has not given up hope of a win in the second Test against Pakistan in Wellington.

The hosts are struggling at 70 for three in their second innings chasing a total of 405 for victory.

After Pakistan were bowled out for 239 on the stroke of tea to leave New Zealand with a mammoth task ahead of them, Mohammad Asif struck three times in the final session to remove Tim McIntosh (two), Martin Guptill (15) and Daniel Flynn (20).

New Zealand still require 335 runs for victory, which would see them wrap up the three-Test series 2-0.

They resume tomorrow with Ross Taylor unbeaten on 15 and Peter Fulton not out on 12.

"We're under no illusions it's a long way away but we just have to believe," Vettori said.

Vettori was full of praise for his seam attack which saw Iain O'Brien take four for 66 before announcing he would be

retiring following the final Test in Napier next week.

Chris Martin grabbed four for 52, while Grant Elliott took two wickets in two balls to finish with two for eight from five overs.

"To restrict them to that score (of 239) was a fantastic effort from the seamers.

"I think it was a wonderful day's cricket for us with the ball and now we've got a partnership going we've got to make sure that works tomorrow.

Super Selector is all geared up for the India vs Sri Lanka series. Have you selected your test team in the new Super Selector? Hurry! Register now and win exciting prizes

"We have to believe. It's a great deck too so that's a positive thing.

"Obviously losing three wickets is not ideal but I think we're in a lot better space than we were last night (after

being rolled for 99 in the first innings)."

Pakistan middle order batsman Misbah-ul-Haq, who scored 33 before becoming Iain O'Brien's first scalp of the day, felt the lead of just over 400 was one his side could defend with two days remaining at the Basin Reserve.

"I think the wicket is a little bit difficult. It's not easy to bat. The ball is seaming around and due to the weather it's also swinging. I think it's really difficult to score here.

"It's doing a bit for the bowlers and I think our bowlers are a good chance to bowl them out.

"You can't say anything about cricket until the last run has been scored and until the last wicket is taken but I think we

are in a good position but we have to finish it up."