World champions New Zealand returned to the final for the first time since winning the Quad Series in 2017, but it was Australia who won the tournament for the seventh time out of its eight editions.

An underwhelming start from the number-one ranked side had them 19-15 behind in the first quarter of the final at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town.

New Zealand's lead was cut to 31-30 at the halfway stage, and Australia showed their class in the third to go 44-40 in front.

They built a seven-goal advantage in the fourth quarter, but with seven minutes remaining there was then a remarkable incident for which the match is likely to be remembered.

New Zealand captain Ekenasio clearly scored, but South African umpire Anso Kemp did not see it having been distracted by a scuffle involving Australia's Courtney Bruce and opponent Grace Nweke.

English umpire Gary Burgess also missed the goal, saying he had been watching downcourt instead.

With the absence of a video assistant referee system, Kemp and Burgess restarted play with a rare toss-up.

Australia went on to win 56-50, Cara Koenen and Steph Wood both starring.

Third place went to England, who beat hosts South Africa 49-42.

Both teams went into the third-place match without a win from the group stage, having drawn 46-46 when they met each other.

Australia edged past New Zealand 59-57, sandwiched between a 61-55 win against England and 65-48 triumph over South Africa, which ensured they finished the Quad Series with a perfect record.

New Zealand won their opener 61-41 against South Africa, and saw off England 55-45.

The Quad Series served as a warm up for this year's quadrennial Netball World Cup, due to be held in Cape Town from July 28 to August 6.