New Zealander Kieran Muir has won the Fiji Open and secured his placed at the Fiji International as has local favourite Sam Lee.

Starting the final round four shots clear of Fijian Sam Lee, Muir fired 4-under 68 in the final round to win the title by seven shots with a tournament total 19-under the card.

“I came here last year and wanted to get the win, I played pretty well but two guys played better so it’s nice to come back this year and make plenty of birdies,” said Muir.

“I putted really well; it’s not easy to do around here. Three out of the four rounds I hit a minimum of 16 greens so I was hitting it pretty well so plenty of birdies.”

Muir was delighted to win the tournament but even more excited by his prize; a start in the Fiji International from 17-20 August.

“I have played the Fiji International twice and I love Natadola so I am keen to get back there and have another crack,” added Muir.

“It is an opportunity and it means something if you can make the most of it. It’s fantastic to go back to a course that I know, despite the changes.”

While Lee was disappointed with his 2-over the card final round, he was excited to also have booked a spot at the Fiji International as the leading Fijian player.

“I wanted to win the Fiji Open to make sure two locals qualified from this tournament but I am happy to have secured my place at the Fiji International.,” said Lee, who finished the leading Fijian at the Fiji Open.

“I put myself out of it a little on the first day having only 1-under but today Kieran played well and I guess I put too much pressure on myself.

“I made a silly mistake on 8, playing the wrong ball, which cost me two shots.”

Lee has played every Fiji International since its advent in 2014 and with it being hosted at his home course of Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course he was eager to get back there this year.

“I have played the Fiji International all three years and I feel like I am playing better every year.”

It is a huge opportunity for Lee, who no longer holds status on the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australia, a good performance in the Fiji International could help re-secure it for him.

The Fiji International will be played from 17-20 August 2017 at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course and is tri-sanctioned by the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, European Tour and Asian Tour.