Tearful Bachelor Art Green tells runner-up: 'I am sorry'

Art Green has told Dani Robinson that he was 'sorry' for choosing Matilda Rice in the finale of The Bachelor NZ.

The star of The Bachelor NZ has apologised to runner-up contestant Dani Robinson, telling her that he's sorry for breaking her heart.

Art Green dumped Robinson in last week's finale of the TV3 reality show when he chose a relationship with Matilda Rice, the show's other finalist.

Robinson had declared her love for Green throughout the finale, and even told Green's mother she would accept a proposal if it came.

On last night's recap episode After the Final Rose, Robinson confronted Green for the first time since the finale was filmed - and she didn't hold back.

"One thing that's unanswered for me, one thing that upsets me (is) when you (told Matilda) that it's always been her. That took all the value out of our relationship ... was it always Matilda?" Robinson asked a stern Green.

Green replied: "I had incredibly strong feelings for both of you. Making that decision was the hardest decision I've ever had to make. I think you're amazing ... I am sorry."

Robinson replied: "Good answer."

Robinson had earlier told the show's host Mike Puru that her feelings for Green had been "intense" and called Green's decision "really upsetting".

"I felt the spark and connection and really didn't believe that could be beaten by anyone else (but) I knew as soon as I walked around the corner and saw him standing there that it wasn't me.

"It's made me realise how resilient I am - I can bounce back and I can be happy ... I think it's a real shame that we won't get to see where the relationship would have gone."

Art Green has told Dani Robinson that he was 'sorry' for choosing Matilda Rice in the finale of The Bachelor NZ.

Later on, Green and Rice told Puru they were looking forward to being able to go out in public for the first time together. Confidentiality agreements meant they couldn't disclose who the winner was before the finale aired.

"We have this level of communication I don't have with anyone else ... we laugh and laugh and laugh," said Green. "Having a normal relationship is going to be great."

Other revelations included Poppy revealing that Green's texting during a date put her off a relationship with him, and that Chrystal regretted telling Green she wanted to punch him.

Puru also announced auditions for a second season of The Bachelor would be held later in the year.

- nzherald.co.nz