After a culturally rich opening ceremony, New Zealand women's football team won 1-0 against Norway at Eden Park.
The game attracted a crowd of 42,137, establishing a new record for international soccer matches in New Zealand.
Australia's Matildas also celebrated a 1-0 win against Ireland, in front of a record 75,784 fans in Sydney, despite star player Sam Kerr's injury.
Ticket sales for matches in New Zealand are reportedly lower than in Australia, with FIFA urging Kiwis to support the tournament.