The last time Melbourne Tigers won a regular-season NBL match in New Zealand, Chris Anstey was still playing.


The Tigers' losing streak continued on Thursday night with a 78-68 loss to the New Zealand Breakers on the back of a stellar last term from the three-time NBL champions at the North Shore Events Centre in Auckland.


With a slim lead early in the final term, Mika Vukona (14 points, 17 rebounds and eight assists) and Thomas Abercrombie (14 points) inspired their side to victory.


Chris Goulding (23 points) and Scott Morrison (21 points, 13 rebounds) led the Anstey-coached Melbourne team.


The Tigers talked all week about being desperate to make a good start, and after a shaky opening, were fired into action by new import Mustapha Farrakhan who scored six points as the visitors took a 26-21 quarter-time lead.


The second term proved to be all for the Breakers, who beat the Tigers 20-12 for the quarter to take a 41-38 lead.


The home side also led 60-58 at the final change.


The Tigers host Sydney Kings, including former NBA player Sam Young, at the State Netball and Hockey Centre on Sunday.