Simon Katich's unbeaten century helped Australia [Images] take control of the first Test against New Zealand [Images] at the Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday.

The left-hander was left stranded on 131 as Australia were bowled out for 268 in 81.2 overs in their second innings setting New Zealand a stiff target of 327 to win the match.

In reply, New Zealand's top order failed once again and the visitors were left reeling at 143 for six in 44 overs at close on day three.

Ross Taylor was unbeaten on 67, but the rest of the batsmen came undone against Stuart Clark's disciplined line and length bowling.

The pacer claimed the wickets of Aaron Redmond (10), Brendon McCullum (3) to cripple the visitors. He claimed the wicket of Grant Elliott for 0 in the final over of the day to finish with figures of three for 23 in 12 overs.

Resuming the day on 131 for six, Australia found themselves in trouble yet again as Brad Haddin (19) and Brett Lee [Images] (7) fell cheaply to left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori [Images].

But Katich gave Australia hope with a 53-run partnership for the ninth wicket with Mitchell Johnson, who stroked 31 from 59 deliveries. Stuart Clark also hit a few shots at the end to score 18 from 12 deliveries before he was the final wicket to fall when he was caught by Vettori off Tim Southee.

Brief Scores:

Australia 1st innings: 214 all out in 77 overs (Michael Clarke [Images] 98, Tim Southee 4-63)

New Zealand 1st innings: 156 all out in 50 overs (Ross Taylor 40, Mitchell Johnson 4-30)

Australia 2nd innings: 268 all out in 81.2 overs (Simon Katich 131 not out, Mitchell Johnson 31, Chris Martin 3-69)

New Zealand 2nd innings: 143 for 6 in 44 overs (Ross Taylor 67 not out, Stuart Clark 3-23)