Wellington - Second-half tries to Cory Jane, Callum Gibbins and Nehe Milner-Skudder extended Wellington's perfect start to the season as the Hurricanes beat the Melbourne Rebels 36-12 on Friday.
The Hurricanes are the only unbeaten side in Super Rugby this season and opened up a seven-point lead over Australia's Brumbies, who are in second place in the table on 20 points after also playing six games.
Rebels' fullback Mike Harris slotted four first-half penalties as the Hurricanes were penalised heavily at the breakdown.