Mackenzie (14), a year 10 pupil at St Kevin's College, has had a fairytale-like introduction to the world of singing.
While singing at Christmas Mass at St Patrick's Basilica 18 months ago, Mackenzie captured the attention of Wellington-based Angela Gorton, a trustee of the Dame Malvina Major Foundation, who was visiting her son in Oamaru.
Mrs Gorton heard an "exceptionally interesting and beautiful sound" as it unfolded, and said Mackenzie had a mature quality at the top of her voice which was not usual for someone of her age.
She approached Mackenzie after Mass and was concerned when she heard she was not learning singing.
"I felt someone with that ability needs to be very carefully nurtured," Mrs Gorton said.
After seeking a second opinion on Mackenzie's voice, Mrs Gorton arranged funding through the foundation, Oamaru Rotary Club and the Whitestone Community Arts Council for tuition.
"It just blew me away. I was so excited," Mackenzie said.
In April, Ms Gorton arranged for Dame Malvina to hear Mackenzie sing when she was in Oamaru as part of a tour.
"I went to the Opera House and met her, which was really cool. She was so nice," Mackenzie said.
Mackenzie sang three songs for her. It was the first time she had been on a big stage and she was nervous.
Dame Malvina suggested the young soprano learn from Lois Johnston, at Hinds, and Mackenzie has since been travelling to Canterbury every fortnight for lessons.
She hopes to audition this year for the Pettman Junior Academy of Music in Christchurch.
Asked what her ambition was, Mackenzie said she wanted to be a famous opera singer - like Malvina Major.
