Kia Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic made history tonight as the first defending champions in the ANZ Championship to make play-offs one year on.

Photos by Daniel Hines.

Magic met with the Northern Mystics in front of a full house at ASB Arena on Monday posting an impressive 68-40 win against the visitors.

With an eye on the semi-finals, Magic ended the game in a celebratory outcome for coach Noeline Taurua who made her last outing in her hometown.

Fresh from four consecutive wins, the defending champions retained their winning streak with a strong second half securing an advantage in the first round of the play off matches.

Mystics continued to be at a loss when a bad fall resulting in a knee injury saw goal shoot Baliey Mes leave the court.

Latu took her place as Magic finished the first stanza with a 13-9 lead.

Both teams picked up their game with Mystics putting on the pressure gaining plenty of ball.

But it wasn't enough to shake the Magic as they headed into the main break with a 28-19 lead.

With captain Laura Langman performing a convincing third quarter, Magic revved up the game taking to a 48-29 lead in the third stanza.

Heading for a home run, Magic goal shoot Irene Van Dyk was at her commanding best and with support from Halpenny, the prominent shooting pair moved Magic to a 28 goal win.

Magic will meet with Queensland Firebirds in a home game in Waikato on June 30.