Hastings-based shearer Rowland Smith has been crowned Golden Shears champion, the first time he won the title.

Six shearers competed in the final in Masterton on Saturday.

The 26-year old wasn't the fastest to shear his 20 allocated sheep but won the title by the quality of his shearing.

Less than half a point separated Rowland Smith, second placed Dion King of Hastings and defending champion John Kirkpatrick of Napier who finished third.

Mr Smith says the previous finals he's competed in gave him the experience he needed to win.