New Zealand were facing their toughest Group A test against a team that beat Australia last week, but never looked like being challenged at the Stade de la Méditerranée in Béziers.

It followed a 67-0 win over Japan in their opening encounter.

Australia recovered from their loss to Wales with a 54-19 success over Japan in the other match in the group today at the Parc des Sports Et de l'Amitié in Narbonne.

Argentina enjoyed a 29-13 win over Scotland in Group B at the Stade Aimé Giral in Perpignan.

England then gained a second win to stay top of the group after beating Italy 43-5 in the same venue.

Hosts France beat Georgia 24-12 in Group B at the Stade de la Méditerranée as the vanquished side proved competitive - but ultimately unsuccessful - for the second game in succession.

South Africa then prevailed 30-17 over Ireland at the Parc des Sports Et de l'Amitié.

Both France and the South Africans are unbeaten and will meet to determine the top spot.

The 2018 World Rugby Under-20 Championship will take place across Perpignan, Narbonne and Béziers, and is scheduled to conclude on June 17.

It is hoped it will unearth the next generation of test stars to follow in the footsteps of more than 570 players who have graduated from the premier age-grade tournament since it began in 2008.

The final round of group matches are due to take place on Thursday (June 7).