An epic 202 not out by Justin Greaves and a stubborn support role by Kemar Roach saw the West Indies salvage a valiant draw in the first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch on Saturday.

Thanks to their batting exploits, the home side finished day three on a commanding 417-4 for an overall lead of 481 and looked on course for a comprehensive victory.

"The team is clear in their Test match identity, they've done incredibly well as a unit, so just to fall back into that," said New Zealand head coach Rob Walter.

The first Test begins in Christchurch on December 2.