Zac sets off on a life changing journey to the US

Zac Taylor is one of 16 people from around the world named as finalists in the 2012 Voice of McDonald's competition.

The Whakatane teenager yesterday left his home town, bound for Orlando, America, with the prospect of returning home $40,000 richer.

The 18-year-old self-taught singer knows the journey could be life changing and he's all for that.

Taylor started his Voice of McDonald's journey midway through 2011 when he was dared to send in an audition tape by a workmate. To be part of the competition, entrants had to work at a McDonald's restaurant.

Judges liked what they heard and he progressed through various competitions before claiming one of only four spots representing Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa following his semifinal performance in Singapore.

In October last year and just after receiving the news he would be going to Orlando, Taylor and his mother, Jaya Kingi, were in a serious car crash that left the teenager with injuries and his mother fighting for her life.

"I guess that was a real catalyst for me really wanting to win this competition - I've realised life is short and I really want to make my Mum proud," he said.

Taylor was runner-up in the Find a Star contest run by TVNZ show Good Morning last year.

Taylor is taking his brother, Mark, who he hopes to sing with while in Orlando.

Ms Kingi said she was incredibly proud of her youngest child.

Included in the Orlando prize package is a three-day trip to Nashville, Tennessee and an audition with Disney.

"Whatever I bring home from this trip, the doors it will open and the experiences it offers are just incredible."

To follow Zac Taylor's progress and to vote before the grand final, go to www.voiceofmcdonalds.com