Miss Universe New Zealand confirmed for Wellington

Miss Universe Organization

Above Miss Universe New Zealand 2009, Katie Taylor, will hand her crown to her successor in Wellington on June 5.

The Miss Universe New Zealand pageant is confirmed for Wellington, with the finals to be held at the Duxton Hotel on June 5.
   Between May 30 and June 4, individual pageant winners will arrive in the nation’s capital and participate in events in and around the city, from parades at Johnsonville Mall and Farmers Lambton Quay, to an evening event at Mish Mosh on Courtenay Place and a luncheon with the mayor.
   Up to 16 contestants are expected at the national pageant, MCed by TVNZ’s Matt McLean and former Miss Universe New Zealand Samantha Powell.
   Val Lott, National Director of Miss Universe New Zealand, says, ‘I am delighted that the pageant will be held in Wellington where there is so much art, culture and wonderful fashion. It is an entirely appropriate place to hold the event, and I know that the contestants will receive a very warm welcome from the people of Wellington.’
   She added, ‘A variety of activities are planned to ensure the girls get out into the local community and experience the many wonderful activities that the region has to offer.’
   The Wellington pageant has continuity from previous years, with judges Dina Janse van Rensburg, Evana Patterson and Jack Yan returning. Lucire sustainability editor Samantha Hannah and Carl Manderson, director of the Salute Hair & Day Spa, join the judging panel.
   Heading the judging panel, Mr Yan, publisher of Lucire and a Wellington mayoral candidate, says, ‘I am thrilled that the Miss Universe New Zealand pageant has come to the geographical and cultural heart of the country. It has allowed for better representation from around New Zealand, and I am sure we will find a winner who represents the best this nation has to offer.’
   Tickets for the finals are available at NZ$120 per head, and includes dinner, glass of bubbles on arrival at 6 p.m. and a free souvenir brochure. For those attending only the show at 7.30 p.m., the price is NZ$60 and excludes the dinner.