New Zealand came into the match as favourites having recorded a third victory in a row over Australia during the group stage.
Yet while their meeting in Coventry proved tight, the Kiwis running out 14-8 winners, Sunday’s tournament showpiece at Anfield saw Mal Meninga’s men produce a ruthless demonstration of their attacking prowess.
Australia had regained the world title in 2013 with a 34-2 success at Old Trafford and were just 10 points shy of their total from that game by half-time.
A miraculous Kiwi turnaround was never on the cards as they were easily deposed as World champions and the top-ranked side in international rugby league.