Hillier wins 105th New Zealand Open title
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Daniel Hillier held off a late surge from Australian Lucas Herbert to hold his overnight lead and to win the 105th New Zealand Open by two shots.
The world No 100th ranked player overcame strong winds and cold conditions to post a final round 67 for a 22-under four-round total of 262 at the par-72 Millbrook Resort.
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Herbert finished two shots back after a 67, to be 20 under at 264.
The winner of the NZ Open receives automatic entry to The Open Championship but as Hillier already has qualified that prize passes to Herbert who will now play at Royal Birkdale from July 16.
Hillier, 27 who was married earlier this week, led by one shot at 18 under into the final day. He then had his lead cut to one shot at the 10th hole as he made a bogey and Herbet birdied.
However Hillier, a DP World Tour player made birdies at the 11th and 12th holes to retake his lead.
On the final hole Herbert had a chance to chip in on the par-three to put pressure on the Kiwi but his shot from off the green slid past the hole. Hillier was able to make par and take the title.
He became the first New Zealander since Michael Hendry in 2017 to win the tournament.
New Zealander Kerry Mountcastle was tied third at 17-under alongside Japan's Tomoya Ikemura.
The next best local player was Hendry tied in 10th at 12-under.