The 17-year-old shot a two-under 69 in an up and down round that included five birdies and three bogeys to be in a share of 12th.
The New Zealander is eight shots behind leader South Korean Hyo Joo Kim, who blitzed the field with an opening round 10-under 61.
Australian Karrie Webb is four shots back in second place, as she looks to claim a career grand slam having won the other four majors in women's golf. Defending champion Suzann Pettersen is a further two shots back.
American Michelle Wie withdrew from the tournament.