The Black Ferns have lost their first rugby test in almost a year and a half, going down 30-27 to France in Grenoble.
The result means the series is drawn at 1-all after the Black Ferns won the first test 14-nil.
The home side outscored the Black Ferns four tries to three and led 19-14 at halftime and again domiated the Black Ferns at scrum time just as they did in the first test.
Black Ferns and sisters Linda and Aldora Itunu. Photo: Twitter: @BlackFerns
The result meant there was no winning finish for veteran loose Linda Itunu who is retiring from international rugby.
Itunu, who was a late addition to the starting lineup after Les Elder was a late withdrawal made several charging runs and was a stand out on defence.
Discipline was also an issue for the Black Ferns with twing Ayesha Leti-I'iga and midfielder Ruahei Demant both receiving yellow cards.
The Black Ferns last loss was in June last year when they were beaten 29-21 by England in Rotorua.