Monte Pawa's singing sucks no more

Kaitaia boy Monte Pawa Jr, better known for his lawn bowling achievements, has added another string to his bow, taking out heat 12 of Maori Television's popular karaoke show, Homai te Pakipaki.

When he was growing up, Monte Pawa Jnr was not infrequently told that his singing sucked. Not any more it doesn't.

Monte, best known for his lawn bowling achievements, has added another string to his bow, taking out heat 12 of Maori Television's karaoke show Homai te Pakipaki. His rendition of James Morrison's Wonderful World attracted more text-in votes from viewers than any of his opposition, landing him $1000, a mobile phone and a shot at the semi-finals.

He decided to enter the competition at the urging of friends and family (who had presumably changed their minds about the quality of his singing), but it was all a little last minute.

"I was down [in Auckland] with a bowls mate who was appearing on Code (a Maori TV sports show), and asked if this was the same studio they filmed Homai in. I went and had a chat with one of the producers and was booked in for my audition the next day."

The audition process began on the Friday afternoon, with the show filmed that evening. Monte had two auditions before seven contestants were chosen, from a pool of around 40 hopefuls. He and two others went straight through to the show, along with four 'Lucky Pakis,' two of whom were chosen at random minutes before the show.

Monte said he practised "all that day in the shower and toilet," and was quite nervous before the show.

"I went to the toilet I don't know how many times. I ended up looking so sweaty on the show too as I had to run out for a nervous pee right before I performed, and then when the lights came on it got really hot," he said.

"It was cool fun though. I just had fun singing."

The competition had been tough though, the other contenders including current New Zealand karaoke champion Onewhero West.

The prize money would come in very useful when he headed to Australia, to compete in the 'Net Fest,' an international netball competition, later in the year, he added.

As for the semi-finals, he said he looked up to Kiwi singer Stan Walker the most, and would like to sing one of his songs, or maybe a Bruno Mars number.

"We get to choose a selection of songs, and depending on whether the show has that song in the catalogue the vocal coach helps you choose which one will suit your voice best," he said.

"Every week I'm practising hard, and I'm trying to trim down to help my voice."

Monte's family and friends will travel to Auckland for the semi-final, Monte promising a "bus load of us" if he makes the finals.

"Thanks to everyone who voted for me. And please vote for me on September 27," he added.

Meanwhile he is studying for a Bachelor of Education degree and is working as a part-time teacher aide at his old school, Kaitaia College.

'Homai te Pakipaki' screens on Maori TV at 8.30pm Fridays. To see Monte's episode check out The Northland Age Facebook page.