New Zealand scored a competitive 188-6 against Sri Lanka after being put in to bat in the third one-day international in Pallekele on Tuesday.
Opener Bradley-John Watling top-scored for New Zealand with an unbeaten 96 in the day-night match reduced to 33-overs-a-side due to rain. James Franklin (26) and Nathan McCullum (22 not out) were the other main scorers.
Leg-spinner Jeevan Mendis bagged two wickets for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka lead 1-0 in the five-match series following their 14-run victory in the second one-dayer on Sunday. The opening match was called off without a ball being bowled due to rain at the same venue.