Defending champions The Netherlands opened their campaign in the men's Champions Trophy hockey tournament with a thumping 5-2 victory over New Zealand in the opening match in Lahore on Saturday morning.

In the second match of the day, Spain routed India 4-0.

The Dutch, hoping to win the title for the third successive year, scored thrice in a feverish spell in the second half after being level 2-2 till the 45^th minute to run away with the match.

Penalty-corner ace Taeke Taekema put the Dutch ahead in the 25^th minute but their joy was short-lived as New Zealand equalized just three minutes later through Bevan Hari.

Ronald Brouwer scored in the 31st minute to regain the lead for the Dutch at half-time, before Ryan Archibald could come to Kiwis' rescue with a goal in the 42nd minute.

But the defending champions then surged ahead for the third time when Rob Reckers scored in the 44th minute.

Thereafter, the Dutch showed their true class by forcing the pace and dictating terms as they went all out for victory.

Taekema and Karel Klaver struck in the 51^st and 61^st minutes to make it a handsome victory.