allblacks.com and James Mortimer    09.Sep.2012Getty Images

Defending ITM Cup champions Canterbury have finished Round Five of the 2012 season on top of the Premiership table, with a 20-12 win over Wellington (the previous ladder leaders) giving them bragging rights in the blockbuster clash at AMI Stadium over the weekend.

Only point's differential seperates the top four in the Premiership, with Canterbury (+60) ahead of Wellington (+58), Ranfurly Shield holders Taranaki (+40) and Auckland (+38).

The Amber and Blacks held off the challenge from Hawke's Bay to prevail 22-6 in a Shield defence, while Auckland won the battle of the North with a 32-22 win over Waikato.

In the Championship Counties continued their strong start to the season with a statement making 47-13 win over Bay of Plenty, giving Tana Umaga's troops a six competition point buffer at the top of the table.

Tasman stunned Manawatu 27-3 in Palmerston North to secure second spot on the table.

In the Heartland Championship, Wanganui and Wairarapa Bush remain the only undefeated teams, with the Meads Cup holders to strong for Poverty Bay, running in a 47-3 win at Cook's Gardens.

The Bush defeated West Coast 12-8 in a tough battle at Greymouth, while Lochore Cup holders North Otago were defeated 7-3 by Mid Canterbury.

To view the ITM Cup Round Five review, click here.

To view the Heartland Championship Round Three review, click here.