England's Kat Matthews is the inaugural Ironman 70.3 women's Pro Series champion after finishing second in the World Champs in Taupo

Matthews is thrilled to be rewarded for a consistent season and philosophical about dipping out on the world title to three-time winner Taylor Knibb .

Matthews says the American gold medallist's bike leg on the shores of Lake Taupo was simply too good.



Hannah Berry was the best of the New Zealand women in 14th, which was enough to clinch fourth overall in the Pro Series.

Fellow Kiwi Rebecca Clarke finished 29th ... Hannah Knighton was 35th.