New Zealand have got off to the perfect start in the 2009/10 IRB Sevens World Series after winning the Cup title at the season-opening Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens.

The New Zealanders beat off the challenge of Samoa in the final, 24-12, and take an early lead in the Series standings with 24 points. Samoa (20) follow close behind going into the second leg, next weekend's Emirates Airline South Africa Sevens in George.

Reigning World Series champions South Africa relinquished the Dubai title at the quarter final stages and take eight points towards their overall title defence, having lost the Plate final against Australia. In the other finals Wales won the Bowl and Russia the Shield in their first Dubai appearance.

Despite the difficult financial climate in the region, the Dubai event attracted well over 40,000 spectators on both days, underlining the enduring popularity of Sevens, which the IOC voted overwhelmingly into the programme of the Olympic Games in 2016.