The 2019 New Zealand Darts Masters, that took place at the Claudelands Arena in Hamilton, saw Michael van Gerwen claim victory. In an all Dutch final MVG managed to beat Raymond van Barneveld 8-1. Barney showed glimpses of his top level in his last ever World Series event.
The final, however, did not show the things that Van Barneveld is capable of with three darts at the oche. The Dutch ace did produce some decent averages throughout the tournament, beating Daryl Gurney and James Wade on his road to the final. He did this in a convincing way, like Michael van Gerwen reached the final in a convincing way as well. MVG saw off Gary Anderson in the quarterfinals (8-5) and demolished Rob Cross in the semis: 8-3.
The players from Down Under were not at their best in New Zealand. Ben Robb was the only player who managed to survive the first round, beating Simon Whitlock 6-4 on the way. In his next match Robb had to congratulate his opponent: Cross was too strong for him.