Think of enduring New Zealand sporting success, and you might come up with rugby, sailing and rowing amongst others.

But what about scrabble? Nigel Richards is a six-time world champion and regarded by many as the greatest player in the history of the word-based board game.

He wasn't available to defend his title last week but up stepped Auckland doctor Alastair Richards - no relation - who toppled a succession of higher-ranked opponents to triumph at the Wespac English-speaking world championships.

Max Towle asked Dr Richards about his moves on the board.