Stormin' Norm or 'the kid' Cortese?

Who will be crowned the dancing champion - the former All Black turned graceful swinger, or the nimble-footed actor with a fondness for leaving his shirt buttons undone?

Dancing with the Stars celebrity contestants agree that tomorrow's final will be hotly contested, and hint that Stormin' Norm Hewitt has an edge over pretty-boy Shane Cortese.

"I think Shane is a better dancer, like a professional ballroom dancer now, but Norm has a lot of public support," said comedian Ewen Gilmour, second to be voted off.

"Norm had no [formal dancing] experience coming into the show and he's achieved so much. I admire him for that and a lot of people do."

Being a politician, Wairarapa MP Georgina Beyer heaped praise on both finalists, then abstained from picking a winner.

"It's grossly unfair. I love them both, they deserve first equal."

As in previous shows, a panel of judges will award half the points, with the rest coming from the public.

Invercargill Mayor Tim Shadbolt said public support for Hewitt should see him win. Ex-Silver Fern Bernice Mene said it was too close to call.

Prime Minister Helen Clark told Radio Live yesterday that she had a soft spot for the former All Black. "I'm going to bat for Norm," she said. "It's a wonderful achievement for him to get into that final."

The first celebrity to leave the competition, Nicky Watson, and the show's early favourite, Theresa Healey, could not be contacted.

Betting agency Centrebet earlier had the former All Black as hot favourite to win. Hewitt was 4-1 on to take the final, and Cortese was at 5-2.