Chart topper Tiki Taane has launched a scathing attack on problem-plagued X Factor New Zealand, claiming he is being exploited by the show and contestants should expect to be surrounded by "fake, ego-blowing industry vampires".

The Always on My Mind artist posted an open letter to producers ahead of tonight's episode telling them to stop using his name to promote the reality TV show without his consent.

But MediaWorks spokeswoman Rachel Lorimer has hit back saying the promotion was not misleading, and pointed out Taane had unsuccessfully auditioned to be a judge on the show.

In a post on Facebook yesterday Taane lambasted the singing show, saying it had misled the public by linking his name to the show.

An advertisement for tonight's episode states contestant Steve Broad "takes on Tiki Taane".