MICHAEL LONGS became the first New Zealander in four years to win his country's golf open, firing a four under par 67 in the final round of the $350,000 tournament at the Paraparaumu Beach course yesterday.

Long, with a tour round total of 275, finished four strokes ahead of defending champion, Peter O'Malley of Australia.

O'Malley shot a five under par 66 in the final round to beat compatriot Shane Tail by one stroke.

A further stroke back in equal fourth were Australians Peter Lonard, the overnight leader, Peter Senior and Paul Barnsley along with New Zealander Greg Turner.

Long, who had trailed by one stroke after the third round, said everything "seemed to click into place" over the final 18 holes.

"I think holing out is one of my strengths and that helped me this week," he said.

Lonard had a bad finish, dropping four shots in the last 10 holes to shoot 74 in the final round.