Losing finale for Tana

The Waratahs produced their best performance of an otherwise disappointing season by scoring four tries to two in a fast flowing match in Wellington between two teams already out of contention for the end of season playoffs.

Lock Dean Mumm, wings Lachlan Turner and Lote Tuqiri and centre Ben Jacobs all scored five-pointers for the Waratahs while flyhalf Jimmy Gopperth and All Blacks flanker Jerry Collins scored for the Hurricanes.

Umaga, 33, is one of New Zealand's most accomplished and respected players.

He played 74 tests including 21 as skipper but retired from international rugby after leading the All Blacks to a 3-0 cleansweep against the British and Irish Lions in 2005 then completing a Grand Slam of wins against England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

He decided to play another two seasons of Super 14 for the Hurricanes but announced this year would be his last, although he will continue playing for Wellington in the National Provincial Championship.

"I had a bit of fun out there tonight," Umaga said in a televised interview. "It's sad, but I think I've got to move on."

The match was still in the balance at halftime with NSW leading 13-7 after the teams had scored one try apiece but the visitors seized control in the second term and ran away with the game.

Turner scored two minutes after the restart then Tuquiri dotted down five minutes later as the Waratahs suddenly opened up a 20-point lead.

Collins crashed over from a maul in the 52nd minute to cut the margin to less than two converted tries but any chances of a fightback were snuffed out when Jacob scored a late intercept to earn the Waratahs a bonus point.