Commonwealth Games Chef de mission Rob Waddell on his highlight of the Games

As Black Sticks hockey captain Stacey Michelsen prepares to carry New Zealand's flag into the closing ceremony on the Gold Coast, the team can reflect on completing its most successful overseas Commonwealth Games.

New Zealand finished with a 46-medal haul, including 15 gold, 16 silver and 15 bronze.
That surpasses the aggregate of 45 from Manchester in 2002 and Glasgow in 2014.
The performance ranks third overall with 58 and 54 medals coming from the respective Auckland-hosted events of 1990 and 1950.

The Gold Coast gold medal tally is second to the 17 from Auckland 28 years ago.

New Zealand finished fifth overall behind Australia, England, India and Canada.

Chef de mission Rob Waddell said the pioneering women's hockey gold in the 4-1 win over Australia was an example of what they are trying to achieve.

"The women's hockey team story has been one of determination and comeback.

"They missed the top spot at both the Delhi and Glasgow Commonwealth Games, and by continuing to make changes and improvements to finish on top of the podium is absolutely fantastic.

"That was a landmark moment, and what a way to do it."

That helped him decide Michelsen should carry the staff.

"While the credit goes to the whole team, Stacey's leadership has been critical in their result. She is a world-leading athlete and her personal performance has inspired us all."

Waddell said the gold medal success of both sevens teams had been a late thrill. He also enjoyed Jo Edwards' fight back to win her lawn bowls singles title.

"That was one of the most gripping things to see the way she came from behind to go back-to-back for gold. That was quite inspirational."

Waddell was asked how he rated the Games' effort to embrace inclusivity, especially with Kiwi transgender weightlifter Laurel Hubbard competing.

"I was at the venue that day and it was a really warm atmosphere, but it has been a positive environment throughout our team.

"We've got a wide range of athletes. Some sports are well-funded, some are not; some athletes work as fulltime professionals; and we've got para sports represented as well. It's been wonderful to see those athletes in the mainstream."