Sevens win a real high note for Alanna | Hawkes Bay News | Local News in Hawkes Bay

The New Zealand Rugby Sevens squad were not the only champions on the field this weekend, with one Hawke's Bay teen taking home a win of her own.

Tikokino singer Alanna Barkle, 18, braved the 35,000 strong crowd to compete against four other vocalists in the Stars of the Sevens singing competition at Westpac Stadium on Saturday night.

Her rendition of Brooke Fraser's There's Something in the Water saw Miss Barkle take out the top spot as Hertz Star of the Sevens for 2012, complete with a $2000 cash prize.

Last night, the soon-to-be Otago of University Bachelor of Performing Arts student was greeted at Hawke's Bay Airport by her friends, family and fans.

"It was amazing," she said, laughing at all the sudden attention. "I've got so many Facebook messages. I have about 10 friend requests.

"I didn't get nervous until I finally got onstage and then I looked out ... But once I started singing it was fine. You couldn't really hear yourself when you were singing so you sort of had to trust your voice."

When her parents heard the news, she said they had stood on the deck and yelled as they had when New Zealand won the Rugby World Cup, and her father told her he had "never been more excited in my life".

Her mother, Karen Barkle, said the contest was not televised, but friends and relatives at the games were quick to make videos and ring up with live coverage of their own.

"It was pretty amazing, I don't think I have ever been so excited in my life," she said. "We have had phone calls, text messages, Facebook messages it has just been fantastic.

"We are very proud, just so, so proud," Mrs Barkle said.

The Hertz Stars of the Sevens Facebook Page announced the win yesterday.

"What a great night! All of our five finalists braved the rain and delivered awesome performances.

"But there could only be one winner, and it was Alanna Barkle! Congratulations Alanna, the Hertz Star of the Sevens for 2012. Waipukurau must be very proud of you."

Miss Barkle was put up in the four-star James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor and spent her time in Wellington mixing with players and friends before returning home last night.

"She was more worried about the cheque she won because it's a giant novelty one, and she was worried it wouldn't fit on the plane," Mrs Barkle said.