However the win - on a night skipper Cameron Smith celebrated his 50th Test - was soured by a possible fractured cheekbone to Josh Dugan that could rule him out of State of Origin.
The St George Illawarra star came from the GIO Stadium field midway through the second half after clashing heads with Kiwis prop and clubmate Russell Packer and failed to return.
His injury was the only low point on a dominant night for the world No.1 nation, who raced to a 30-0 lead before taking their foot off the pedal and allowing the Kiwis two consolation tries.
