Richie Patterson's dream of claiming a third medal at his New Zealand record fourth Commonwealth Games has come to a shock halt in the 85kg snatch competition on the Gold Coast.

The 34-year-old entered the competition at 143kg, but failed on each of his three attempts.

Athletes cannot advance to the clean and jerk if they fail to make a snatch.

Speaking to the Herald after his performance, Patterson said he was retiring after a career extending back more than 12 years at the elite level.

"I'm retiring so it's not the best way to go out.

"It's amazing I've had the opportunity to come to four Commonwealth Games it's kind of unheard of as a weightlifter. I've been lifting for 20 years, it's special.

"I'm proud of what I've achieved and the highlight will always be that Glasgow gold medal and I set out to put my name next to other Commonwealth champions."

Patterson entered to raucous applause on each occasion, courtesy of a strong Kiwi element in the crowd, but the bar was beyond his abilities.

On the first attempt he followed Boris Elesin of Australia. When the local came to his next lift he opted to move up a weight. That meant Patterson faced successive lifts.

After the final effort, Patterson held his head in his hands for a moment before exiting the stage.

The Kiwi secured silver in Delhi and gold in Glasgow.