Zeimann and Polley went down 2-1 [21-10, 22-20, 15-10] in an epic final.
Coming into the match, the Vanuatu duo had won every single pool game before losing their semi-final against Australia.
New Zealand had lost in pool play and in the semi-final against Canada, so they knew they had to come out strong in Monday's match.
They did just that, coming out firing in the first set to lead 7-0 as they looked confident and calm on attack.
As Vanuatu tried to make a comeback, New Zealand were able to maintain their lead with desperation and great anticipation on defence to lead 16-6.
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Despite Pata and Toko starting to find their feet, it was mostly a smooth run for the Kiwis to close out the first set 21-10.
Vanuatu had a better start in the second set, as both teams went back and forth trading points.
As both sides fought till the end, it was a nervy set as they closed in on 20 points a piece. Vanuatu held on to lead 22-20 as the Kiwis couldn't execute, taking the game to a deciding third set.
Pata and Toko remained composed and carried their momentum into a dominant final round as the New Zealanders couldn't quite catch up.
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