The 29-year-old Beijing 2008 and London 2012 gold medallist, who also has two Commonwealth Games golds to her name, received the accolade after an exceptional year that saw her become the first shot putter in history to secure four world titles, following her winning performance at the World Athletics Championships in Moscow in August.

Adams, shortlisted for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Female Athlete of the Year prize, has also remained unbeaten in the Diamond League since 2010, with a record 42 consecutive wins, and finishes her 2013 season with 13 victories.

The athlete, who also won the Lonsdale Cup in 2006, 2007 and 2011, was delighted to receive the "very special award" once again.

"I am so humbled by this, what an amazing year it has been for New Zealand sport and Olympic sports producing world champions," she added.

"I am very proud of my year and especially creating history for New Zealand.

"It's great that the New Zealand Olympic Committee recognises achievements like this each year and I thank them for this."

Valerie Adams has Olympic gold medals from Beijing 2008 and London 2012 ©Getty Images

New Zealand Olympic Committee chief executive Kereyn Smith was delighted to award the trophy to Adams.

"Valerie is an inspiration to young New Zealanders and continues to perform at the very top of her field," she explained.

"Four World Championship wins is outstanding."

The Lonsdale Cup winner is selected by the New Zealand Olympic President's Council, which is made up of business and sporting leaders, and the New Zealand Olympic Committee Board.

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