The Waikato Rivertones Chorus wongold at the Sweet Adelines national competition earlier this month, earning themselves the second-highest score ever for any chorus in New Zealand.
The victory earns the team a place at the world champs in Las Vegas next year.
Team coordinator Cherie Brazendale said across 150 choruses competing around the world the Rivertones now ranked number seven.
"When we had finished and left the auditorium the ushers said we were the only chorus to receive a standing ovation. It was awesome.
"We went in there aiming for most improved chorus. We didn't expect to win gold, or score so high." They beat both Wellington and Auckland's choruses.
To score more than 600 points confirms the group's directors as bonifide master directors, and is based upon everything from vocals, music, showmanship and costumes.
"On the Friday was the Quartet competition and RED was a quartet from our chorus. They won fifth place," Cherie said.
"Some of the choruses around the world are getting well over 700 now."
The Rivertones rehearse every Monday night from 7-10pm and Cherie said the chorus was always on the lookout for new members of all ages.
The chorus sings without music or accompaniment, in four-part harmony with choreography. The chorus sang When the Midnight Choo Choo leaves for Alabam as a show tune and For All We Know as their ballad. They have competed internationally four times.
If you are interested in joining visit www.waikatorivertones.com