Newshub presenter Samantha Hayes, alongside dance partner Aaron Gilmore, was crowned the show's 2018 champion on Sunday night, ousting former cricketer Chris Harris, model Jess Quinn and actress Shavaughn Ruakere to take the title.
``I went into this always planning to give it my best shot, but never imagined for a moment we would win,'' Ms Hayes said.
``Especially when I think about the level of commitment and skill that the other finalists showed tonight - their performances were flawless.''
Supporting Ms Hayes in her pursuit of victory were the proud residents of Milton.
The South African-born 34-year-old was raised in the small South Otago town, where she attended Tokomairiro High School.
She left in 2000, at the age of 17, to follow her broadcasting dreams.
English teacher Trish Eames has fond memories of Ms Hayes as a pupil.
``She loved reading,'' Ms Eames said.
``She was very independent and had the ability to learn independently.
She's got that sort of personality that engages people, and she'll give things a go.''
Assistant principal David Gilling remembered Ms Hayes as an all-round pupil.
``She was a good, reliable student, proven by the fact she regularly baby-sat our children.
She was always going to achieve highly in whatever she was going to do.''
Mr Gilling said he couldn't recall her being a standout dancer.
``I'm sure she probably was.''
Ms Eames said Ms Hayes popped in ``every now and then''.
``She's given a talk at prize giving, and she does, sometimes, pop into the A&P show.''
Milton local Mackenzie Frost said her victory was celebrated on social media.
``I've seen a few people on their Snapchat stories surprised and happy that she won.''
- Alex McLeod
