Australian golfer Lucas Herbert put himself firmly in contention after round three of the New Zealand Open presented by Millbrook Resort, posting a bogey-free nine-under-par 62 to move to 16-under overall. The 30-year-old, a winner last year on the Asian Tour, sits two strokes behind the leader, New Zealand’s Daniel Hillier, setting the stage for a dramatic final round.

Herbert’s surge was highlighted by five birdies on the front nine and four more on the back, giving him the lowest round of the week on Millbrook Resort’s Composite layout. His performance demonstrated steady improvement over the three days, following rounds of 70 and 65 after a shaky start at three over par on the first day.

Battle at the top of the leaderboard

Hillier, one of the tournament favorites, maintained the lead with a third-round 64. The New Zealand golfer capitalized on strategic opportunities, including an eagle and a birdie finish, to stay ahead of a tight chase. Hillier will attempt to become the first Kiwi to claim the New Zealand Open title since 2017, and he acknowledged the challenge of staying patient during a day that demanded precise shot-making.

Hot on their heels, Australian Curtis Luck (63) and New Zealand’s Kerry Mountcastle (64) are tied for second, one stroke behind Hillier. The leaderboard remains tightly packed, with the defending champion Herbert expected to challenge strongly on Sunday. Herbert reflected on his comeback streak over recent tournaments, emphasizing the importance of sticking to his process to maintain his position atop the leaderboard.

Amateur standout and Open Championship stakes

New Zealand amateur Yuki Miya, who led going into the third round, shot 70 to sit at 13-under, tied for fifth with a trio of Asian Tour players: Japan’s Tomoyo Ikemura (63) and Australians Travis Smyth and Wade Ormsby (69 each). With the final round approaching, the competition promises to be fierce, with the New Zealand Open not only offering the title but also a qualifying spot for The Open at Royal Birkdale this summer as part of the Open Qualifying Series.

As Herbert, Hillier, and the rest of the field prepare for the decisive 72-hole finish, golf fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the tournament, combining elite competition, international talent, and the chance to secure a coveted entry into one of the sport’s most prestigious championships.