Aroha Robinson's NZ Idol journey came to an emotional end last night when she failed to make the final of the competition.
Tears streamed down the cheeks of the Mount Maunganui 18-year-old as she prepared to sing her farewell song in front of friends and family and the nation.
MattSaunoa from Levin was named as the first finalist and then Indira Moala from Auckland was announced as the contestant to join him.
Speaking last night, Aroha put on a brave face and said being on NZ Idol was an "awesome" experience.
"I would just like to thank everyone ... I would not have done it without you."
The former Te Puke High School pupil was supported at TV2's Auckland studio by her boyfriend, Rodrigo Paiva, and her grandmother, Ngawiki Kingi.
Family friend Geoff Mutton, president of Te Puke Country Music Club, said he expected Te Puke to be in mourning following Aroha's exit.
"I think she did very, very well.
"I thought she had a very good chance of making the final and was by far the best singer," Mr Mutton, who has known Aroha since she was aged 4, said.
Aroha left a fashion design course at Bay of Plenty Polytechnic to dedicate herself to NZ Idol - which she entered in honour of her late grandfather Jim Kingi - but now plans to return to it next year.
