MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Of the many surprises Super Rugby Pacific has thrown up this season, the Australian teams' spotless record at home to New Zealand rivals ranks among the most astonishing.

Having once dominated Australian sides home or away, none of New Zealand's six teams have breached "Fortress Australia" on their trips "across the ditch" after 10 rounds this season.

The players freed up by the collapse of the Melbourne Rebels have strengthened Australia's four remaining teams and made the once-lopsided competition far more intriguing.