A Hokitika singer-songwriter will open Sir Elton John's concert at Forsyth Barr Stadium in November.
Katie Thompson was selected to open the concert after a nationwide "Open 4 Elton" promotion, which attracted 50 entries and drew more than 70,000 online votes.
She will receive air fares, accommodation and $5000 for her 30-minute cameo in front of a 30,000 crowd in the stadium.
"You've made my day. You've made my career so far," Thompson (25) said, when she learned of her win yesterday.
Promoter Capital C: Concerts managing director Phil Sprey said he was impressed by the standard of the entries.
Thompson had an "impressive" pedigree, he said, having recorded two albums and being nominated for the Horizon Award at the National Country Music awards in Hamilton this year.
Mosgiel voter Jackie Daniell was the winner of the voting competition.
Sir Elton performs his first concert in the South Island for 20 years at the stadium on November 25.
