Johnstone on Orient Express led the three-star class from start to finish, producing the pick of the dressage performances on Friday before some minor jitters on the cross country course yesterday and in today's showjumpiong.
He picked up 12 time penalties yesterday but was still seven points clear of Te Awamutu's Donna Smith at the start of today's competition at the Central Arena.
Orient Express knocked over two rails for eight penalties but Smith on Stanage -- who would have won with a clear round -- suffered the same fate.
She dropped to third, with Auckland rider Jonthan Paget clambering into second after Clifton Promise knocked down one rail.
Cambridge's John Twomey also led from start to finish on Highly Recommended to win the two-star event.
He was clear today to finish nearly eight points clear of Matthew Grayling riding NRM Crusintime.
Former world champion Vaughn Jefferis made an encouraging return to competition, finishing eighth in the two-star event on Cuzzy Bro.
Jefferis, who hasn't competed since the 2000 Sydney Olympics, was 19th after the dressage but produced clear rides yesterday and today to turn the clock back.
