Overall winner for her gospel rendition of How Great Thou Art was Amy Maynard, of Hamilton, after coming through as a finalist in four sections during the five-hour country showpiece, which drew the Bayleys Tussock Country music festival to a close.
A popular choice for overall runner-up this year was Gore instrumentalist Brendon Fairbairn.
Fairbairn played a crowd-pleasing harmonica medley and said, after receiving his award, he "could not have played any better".
Other prominent local competitors included twin Gore sisters Maegan and Nicola Mitchell.
Nicola was a contender in gospel, and winner in traditional and singer-songwriter categories; she also performed with her sister as The Mitchell Twins in the duet, New Zealand song and country rock categories, winning country rock.
Nicola said the competition had been a very high standard.
Maynard, part of a large contingent representing the Gisborne Country Music Club, said she had always placed second in competitions throughout her musical career, making the win extra special.
"It’s always been a dream of mine to win this prize, and all that goes with it. I’ve been on stage since I was 6 years old, so at 36, I finally feel like I’m doing what I should be doing."
Gold Guitars convener Phil Geary said he was "very pleased" with the event.
"There’s been some brilliant talent across all age groups. I think our winner [Amy Maynard] came here on a mission, and she achieved it."
Several hundred country fans thronged to the grand finale of the 10-day Tussock Country music festival, and were treated to a smorgasbord of talent.
Featuring performers in 12 categories from as far afield as Australia, the event delivered its characteristic variety of up-and-coming and seasoned musicians.
This year’s first-prize winner receives a package worth more than $20,000, including cash, instruments, a professional video clip and single, publicity and a spot at the Gore New Zealand Showcase held in Tamworth, Australia.
