New Zealand, who had started the day on 250 for one, were in danger of squandering their advantage early as England's bowlers choked off their run supply and took wickets at crucial moments.
Pace bowler Southee, who had been criticised for his cavalier approach to batting throughout the series, persisted with his attacking and belted 44 runs in 33 balls to grab the initiative back for his side.
Steven Finn raced through the tail after Southee was caught by wicketkeeper Matt Prior to finish with six wickets for 125.
Neil Wagner was left on two not out when Trent Boult became Finn's sixth wicket after being well caught by Nick Compton at point.
New Zealand started the session after lunch on 312 for four but England checked their opponents' hopes of building a massive total by taking timely wickets.
New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum, who had scored six half centuries in his last seven innings against England, was in good form on 38 and his eyes lit up when part-time seamer Jonathan Trott was introduced to the attack.
Twice McCullum mistimed shots against the slower pace then he chased a swinging wide delivery and was well caught by wicketkeeper Matt Prior.
Dean Brownlie fell shortly after for 36 when he cut a wide James Anderson delivery straight to Compton at backward point before Southee began his counter attack.
MISERLY SESSION
England had earlier seized the momentum in a miserly first session by capturing three wickets, removing Kane Williamson (91), Ross Taylor (19) and Peter Fulton (136), while allowing just 62 runs in 28 overs.
The visitors appeared to also have dismissed McCullum in the morning, when he was given out by Paul Reiffel on his second ball.
The New Zealand captain asked for a television review and was granted a reprieve when the video ruled out both a leg before and caught behind decision.
Fulton, who dominated the first day's play with his maiden Test century and anchored substantial partnerships with Hamish Rutherford and Williamson, was well caught down the leg side by a diving Prior off Finn.
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