Ricky Ponting's [Images] woes continued as Australia [Images] were dismissed for just 214 on the opening day of the first Test against New Zealand [Images] at the Gabba (Brisbane), on Thursday.

Michael Clarke [Images] scored 98 and Michael Hussey contributed 35 to give the home side's total a semblance of respectability.

Tim Southee was the most successful bowler for the visitors with figures of four for 63.

Southee's opening burst produced the crucial wickets Matthew Hayden [Images] (8), Simon Katich (10) and captain Ricky Ponting (4) and reduced Australia to 23 for 3 before Hussey and Clarke put on a 73-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

The 20-year-old returned to dismiss Brett Lee [Images] (4) and vindicate captain Daniel Vettori's [Images] decision to select him over the more-experienced Kyle Mills.

Iain O'Brien and Jesse Ryder chipped in with two wickets apiece as Australia's woeful run continued.

New Zealand reached seven without loss at stumps, with Aaron Redmond unbeaten on three and Jamie How not out on two. 

Brief scores: Australia 214 (Michael Clarke 98, Tim Southee four for 63) vs New Zealand seven for no loss.