The X Factor (NZ) - 2013 Grand Final

The first New Zealand final of The X Factor features emotional highs and lows, and judge's compliments aplenty. Three young singers made it through in 2013: Whenua Patuwai, Jackie Thomas and Benny Tipene. All would achieve NZ top three singles within weeks of the final. Among the highlights of the 95 minute special: Tipene's acoustic version of 'Hey Ya!', Patuwai's 'A Change is Gonna Come' and Thomas's emotional last number — not to mention the showstopping opening: Daft Punk's 'Get Lucky', featuring 13 finalists, an acrobat, and two dancers wearing mirrorball heads. 

You know, we've had a tough time over the last couple of years, especially in Greymouth. There's always sunshine after rain, and we're looking at you to be our rainbow that appears after the storm.

– Greymouth Mayor Tony Kokshoorn, to contestant Jackie Thomas

Key Cast & Crew

Dominic Bowden

Presenter

Stan Walker

Judge

Mitchell Hawkes

Director

Ged Mahony

Producer

Anna Lynch

Story Producer

Chris Stanbury

Camera Operator