Miss Universe New Zealand 2011 pageant returns to Wellington

Miss Universe New Zealand national director, Val Lott, has announced that the finals for the 2011 pageant will be held again in Wellington, on Sunday, May 1.

   The success of last year’s event drew the pageant back to the capital city.

   Contestants from all around New Zealand will arrive in Wellington on April 23 for a week of preparation which will include public appearances, visiting the elderly and training for the final show.

   All funds from the charity auction, held as part of the final night, will be donated to the Christchurch earthquake fund.

   The Canterbury region will be represented with Miss Christchurch. Although she lost her sponsorship after the tragic earthquake of February 22, Miss Universe New Zealand has decided to sponsor her.

   The Museum Hotel will, once again, host the contestants in their luxury accommodation.

   The final event will take place at the Amora Hotel Wellington on Sunday, May 1, commencing with a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival followed by a formal dinner.

   To date, there are 14 contestants vying for the title of Miss Universe New Zealand 2011. 

   A strong line-up includes Miss Christchurch, Miss Wellington, Miss Hutt Valley, Miss Manawatu and Miss Federated Farmers, also from Wellington.

   Tickets for the event are available from Mrs Lott, email lotts@xtra.co.nz.

   The winner will travel to São Paulo, Brazil to compete in the world’s most prestigious beauty pageant, Miss Universe. More than 80 contestants from around the world will be together for one month. The Miss Universe final will be held on September 12. 

Miss Universe New Zealand site at http://www.missuniverse.co.nz and the official Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/missuniversenz.