An emotional Ross Taylor paid tribute to his mentor the late Martin Growe following a superb century which put New Zealand in sight of a series sweep against the West Indies in Hamilton on Monday.

Taylor equalled the New Zealand record of 17 Test centuries, held by Growe and Kane Williamson, and was unbeaten on 107 when New Zealand declared their second innings at 291 for eight in the second Test.

The West Indies, set a daunting 444-run target, were two for 30 after eight overs at stumps and staring at a second loss after their innings defeat in the first Test.

A teary-eyed Taylor attributed his success to Growe, the former New Zealand captain who died last year from lymphoma at the age of 53.

SCORES IN BRIEF

NEW ZEALAND: First innings 373 WEST INDIES: First innings 221 NEW ZEALAND: Second innings 291 for 8 deci (Williamson 54, Taylor 107 not out, Santner 26;

Gabriel 2-52, Gummins 3-69, Chase 2-51) WEST INDIES: Second innings 30 for 2.