Orion Health Godzone Adventure Race directors Warren Bates and Adam Fairmaid picked them as the ones to beat and Fairmaid said the team stuck to their race plan from the very start.
"They raced with determination and confidence, playing a waiting game and believing they could run away from the field as the race went on which is exactly as it played out.
"They are extremely fit, have one of the best navigators in the world and are technically very skilled. They primarily work as a team which is what this sport is all about."
Fa'avae said the team were pleased with the win.
"It was a race that inspired us through the ruggedness of the course which we had to overcome to get to the finish line.
"It's probably not the easiest way to travel from Milford to Queenstown but it did give us a lot of opportunity to use the skills of the team."
He said he was impressed with the event and other competitors.
"We have a lot of respect for the other teams racing and praise for all the officials out on the course who were friendly and helpful," Fa'avae said.
"Now it's time to get out of these wet clothes and enjoy some hot food and reflect on our win."
The team have the opportunity to compete at the Adventure Racing World Champs in the French Alps this year.
