The under-23 world champion was beaten by his team-mate Sam Gaze at their National Championships last weekend, with the pairing battling for what is expected to be a sole berth on the team for Rio.

Cooper was able to break clear of his compatriot midway through the race at the Queenstown Bike Park, but was joined by Australia’s Dan McConnell.

However, Cooper was able to hold off the challenge of the world number eight, who had been seeking to win his third consecutive Oceania Championships crown, by winning the event in one hour, 25min and 22sec.

McConnell eventually settled for second place after crossing the line in 1:25.40.

“There were some steep climbs and a couple that we had to run and I really enjoyed that,” Cooper said.

“It was bit like the courses I raced growing up, I really enjoyed that course today.

“Dan is one of the world’s best riders on his day so it is a huge confidence boost.

“I knew the form was there and I think I proved that today.”

Australia’s Scott Bowden completed the podium in 1:30.43, while Gaze missed out on a medal after finishing in 1:32.18.

His battle with Cooper looks set to continue at the opening two International Cycling Union (UCI) World Cup events in Lourdes and Cairns, with New Zealand’s Olympic selection expected to be decided after the latter.

Australia’s Rebecca Henderson was able to successfully defend her women’s title after she completed the course in a time of 1:28.44.

A strong performance from New Zealand’s Kate Fluker saw her finish second, behind the world number 19, in 1:29.48.

Peta Mullens narrowly claimed bronze for Australia by finishing in 1:35.10, with New Zealand’s Samara Sheppard ending narrowly adrift on 1:35.11.