All Blacks triumph in La Plata

New Zealand claimed the inaugural Rugby Championship with a stunning 54-15 victory over Argentina in La Plata.

It was the performance the side had been threatening throughout the Championship and was too much for the home side's defences to cope with. It was the best effort the All Blacks have achieved in their seven Tests on Argentinian soil surpassing the 36-6 win in 1991.

The outside backs, especially wings Julian Savea and Cory Jane, enjoyed the freedom, scoring five tries between them while fly-half Dan Carter's steadiness - he scored two penalties and three conversions - kept the pressure on the home side throughout.

Captain Richie McCaw thrived on another challenge, a rare appearance in Argentina, and led the side to show the home town fans why the All Blacks were world champions.

Number eight Kieran Read was again instrumental in support play and running the ball back while there was unrelenting support whenever the All Blacks ran the ball.

Argentina enjoyed a lively start to the game, but the pace the All Blacks played at took its toll.

Half-back Martin Landajo, who opened the scoring with a try early on, had an outstanding game for the home team while full-back Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino and centre Marcelo Bosch were dangerous runners.

While there was intent in the home side, their defences were less effective in the dry weather conditions and they were unable to produce the quality exhibited in their first game in Wellington.

Aaron Smith and Ma'a Nonu also scored a try apiece for the All Blacks while substitute Aaron Cruden kicked over a penalty and two goals.

Gonzalo Camacho crossed over for the Pumas' second try shortly after the break and Juan Martin Hernandez was on target with a penalty and a conversion for the home side.