New Zealand have taken out Pakistan's top order after setting a daunting 280-run target on Friday's last day of the deciding third Test in Abu Dhabi.

Pakistan were 5-55 at lunch and in danger of losing only their second Test series in 10 years in the United Arab Emirates.

Seamers Tim Southee and Colin de Grandhomme reduced Pakistan to 2-32 by dismissing Mohammad Hafeez (8) and Azhar Ali (5).

Pakistan need to bat out a further 58.2 overs to deny the Black Caps a rare series win in Asia.

Pakistan fell short by four runs when they was bowled out for 171 to lose the first Test at the same venue before levelling the series with a resounding innings and 16-run win in Dubai.

Earlier, Henry Nicholls hit an unbeaten century as New Zealand went on a run spree despite losing captain Kane Williamson (139) off the first ball of the day.

The Black Caps belted 81 runs in nine overs before declaring their second innings at 7-353 inside the first hour for an overall lead of 279 runs.

Nicholls remained 126 not out off 266 balls that featured 12 boundaries as the left-hander scored 36 quick runs after resuming on 90.

Legspinner Yasir Shah claimed 4-129 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi finished with 2-85.