The Kiwi rider was seeking to defend the title he won last year in the Czech Republic.

Gaze would feature in a group of 14 riders, which broke away from the main field at the conclusion of the start loop.

It proceeded six laps of a 4.3 kilometre circuit in Smithfield Park.

The move was reduced to six riders at the conclusion of the second lap of the course at the Australian venue.

Gaze successfully launched his effort for back-to-back world titles, as he moved clear on the penultimate lap and stayed away to triumph in a time of 1 hour, 17min and 46sec.

"It was a very technical race because a lot of the boys were going well today," said Gaze.

"For me it was key to have a good start loop because it allows you to be first on the climb, which makes it easier for the rest of the lap.

"My plan was to stay at the front and be in control and wait for a moment that suited me.

"Under-23 is unpredictable because there are so many good riders coming up, so I'm happy to be able to pull on the rainbow jersey for a second year in a row."

Gaze finished clear of Alan Hatherly of South Africa, who ended 11 seconds off the pace.

The podium was completed by Germany’s Maximilian Brandl, who finished in 1:18:37.

Elite male and female cross-country races - the only mountain biking events on the Olympic programme - are due to take place tomorrow.

Downhill races for men and women are scheduled to take place on Sunday (September 10).