The New Zealand team, with five Wanganui representatives, retained the Oceania Trophy when they defended it against Australia for the ninth year in a row at the Oceania Speed Skating Championships.
Despite being evenly matched in competitor numbers, the New Zealanders' comfortable winning margin in Palmerston North last week was due in part to the Wanganui skaters' strong efforts.
Rebecca Smith dominated the Junior Ladies' class. She was crowned the overall champion by winning gold in the 20km elimination, 10km points, 1000m and the 42km marathon, as well as being part of the winning relay team.
Spokesman Ken Smith said securing the overall title had not been all smooth sailing because his daughter had to deal with a resurgent Daina Gibbs of the Manawatu club, who won the 200 time trial and the 500m, with Rebecca second both times.
"The 1000m finish was so close between the two that Smith was awarded the win only on a split decision by officials after a 15-minute deliberation."