Clint Bellamy, president of the Taranaki Shears, says it was another successful year for the annual competition held at the Stratford War Memorial Hall on Sunday, March 29.
A total of 95 shearers and wool handlers entered the competition, which is now in its 28th year, including legendary Te Kuiti shearer David Fagan and the new Golden Shears champion Gavin Mutch.
"It was a strong group of competitors this year, but it was Hastings competitor Rowland Smith who took out the open title in the end," says Clint.
Rowland, who is a reigning world champion, took the top spot from local shearers after shearing 20 sheep in 15 minutes and 16 seconds with a score of 61.766 points.
Stratford's Paul Avery came in second place with a score of 62.660 points.