The victory was overshadowed by an injury to England left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone - the world's top-ranked bowler in One-Day Internationals.
Ecclestone jarred her shoulder chasing a boundary early in the innings, bowling just four deliveries and taking one wicket before leaving the field. Linsey Smith struggled in the powerplay, conceding multiple boundaries, while New Zealand reached 89 for one.
Melie Kerr (35) and Georgia Plimmer (43) steadied the innings with a 68-run partnership, but once Kerr was caught off Alice Capsey and Plimmer trapped lbw by Charlie Dean, New Zealand folded to 168 all out. Capsey and Nat Sciver-Brunt took two wickets each, with Sophie Devine dismissed for 23 in her final ODI.
Chasing 169, England's openers Amy Jones (86 not out) and Tammy Beaumont (40) shared a 75-run partnership, followed by an 83-run stand between Jones and Heather Knight (33). Jones sealed victory with back-to-back fours, completing the chase in 29.2 overs. Danni Wyatt-Hodge briefly batted at number four but only faced seven deliveries.
The win confirmed England's second-place finish, meaning they would advance if rain disrupts the semi-final. While Ecclestone's fitness is uncertain, England head into the knockout stage with strong momentum, a settled batting order, and a versatile bowling attack. Meanwhile, Devine bid an emotional farewell to ODIs, leaving behind a celebrated career.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has recalled Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden for next week's World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, while Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott earns his first senior call-up.
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler says his players unanimously believe Danny Welbeck deserves a recall to the England squad, as calls grow for the in-form striker to be included in Thomas Tuchel's selection for this month's World Cup qualifiers.
Pep Guardiola has urged England manager Thomas Tuchel to recall Phil Foden after the Manchester City star produced a sparkling performance in their 4-1 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund.
Australia head coach Joe Schmidt has accused England of engaging in gamesmanship that helped them win Saturday's Test match at Twickenham.
