France drew level in the 54th minute with a well-worked try.
The charging Harinordoquy was held up just short of the line but France retained possession and Clerc's well-timed pass released openside Dusautoir who went over on the right hand side.
Beauxis converted and the game was tied at 13-13.
France's forwards then enjoyed a purple patch but New Zealand, having been initially taken aback, weathered the storm and saw So'oialo burrow his way over for a try confirmed by video referee Chris White.
But Carter's missed conversion meant that, at 18-13 ahead, New Zealand still had plenty of work to do heading into the final quarter.
Laporte, with 13 minutes left, played his trump card by sending on the gifted, but erratic Michalak for Beauxis.
It was a move that paid dividends barely two minutes later. Traille broke clear before finding Michalak, taking the ball at pace, who in turn released Jauzion for a well-worked try.
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