Otago has come up short in its bid for a national title.
It was beaten 72-62 by Waikato in the women's final of the national under-23 championships in Porirua.
The game got away from Otago after halftime, as Waikato piled on a 25-10 third quarter.
It trailed 40-33 a minute into the quarter, but managed just four more points for the remainder of the quarter.
However, Waikato was able to keep its score ticking over and opened a 57-37 gap heading into the final quarter.
Otago fought back, but the 20-point gap was too much to overcome.
Tournament most valuable player Ella Bradley proved key for Waikato, scoring 20 points on nine of 18 shooting.
She combined well with Zarya Poulava (16 points) and Alyssa Hirawani (15 points) to be influential.
Nicole Ruske, who was named to the tournament team, led Otago with 24 points and seven rebounds.
Zoe Richards chipped in with 12 points and eight rebounds.
In the boys final, Hutt Valley-Wellington proved far too strong for Manawatu.
It claimed a 93-74 win as Sione Helu delivered a most valuable player performance with 23 points and five assists.
