Heinrich Malan’s side struggled in the morning session in a cloudy Belfast and added just 66 more runs to their total.

Tom Mayes and Lorcan Tucker were dismissed early and while Stephen Doheny did bring up his first half-century in Test cricket as Ireland surpassed 100, he exited for 57 before an enforced early lunch break due to a rain shower.

Campher then retired hurt as Ireland’s woes continued into the afternoon session with Andy McBrine (13) and Lorcan Tucker (50) departing, the latter after notching a fifth Test 50 as the impressive Nathan Smith collected his eighth wicket of the match.

Mark Adair and Liam McCarthy helped Ireland to better the 179 they got in their first innings, but Test debutant McCarthy slipped a he sprinted to the other and was run out for 11 as New Zealand edged closer to victory.

Confirmation of their win came soon after as Tickner (5-76) dismissed Wilson to bring the game to a close before tea.

Despite the defeat, Balbirnie was impressed by the performances of Test debutants Mayes, McCarthy and Wilson, singling out the 19-year-old for praise.

“It was great to get a few guys debuts and Test experience, but ultimately we weren’t at the levels they were at,” he added.

“The guys who got their debuts looked pretty good at that level. Reuben Wilson, his first Ireland cap at 19, I think he has a huge future in the game.

“Certainly guys getting runs [was a positive too]; Andrew McBrine, Lorcan Tucker, Stephen Doheny, in only his second Test.

“Plenty of positives, but for us to be successful at this level we need to play as much first-class cricket as we can. Everyone is desperate to get better.”