2015 Grand Final - Miss Universe New Zealand

OUR PLATINUM PARTNERS
GOLDEN GOWNS
2015 Grand Final
Our chosen charity
Look who’s riding
our bikes now!
GET
YOUR
HEALTH
PUMPING
WITH
OUR
BIKES
Irene
Van Dyk
STORES
NATIONWIDE
www.bikebarn.co.nz
New Zealand
Sporting Hero
Good evening and welcome to SKYCITY for the
Grand Final of Miss Universe New Zealand 2015.
You will see six TV cameras around the
auditorium: once again, we are at the forefront of
the digital revolution, taking our show to the world
via a live stream, available at www.nextmissnz.
com. A delayed broadcast will also screen on
Face TV, channel 83 on SKY TV, in the coming
weeks and the show will remain online on our own
Miss Universe YouTube channel so that you can
experience the excitement over and over again. If
you’ve downloaded this souvenir programme and
you are watching us online then also I bid you a
warm welcome.
Tonight’s show is packed with excitement and
entertainment. We are delighted to welcome back
West End star Russell Dixon, who will once again
serenade the finalists. We are also excited that
Prestige are hitting the stage. X Factor stars Mae Valley are also joining us, along
with the singing sensation, Meryl Cassie. Throw into that mix, 20 finalists and two
eliminations and you have an extraordinary show.
Our judges are at their top of their game when it comes to understanding what
makes a winner, and we are honoured to welcome MJ Lastimosa, Miss Universe
Philippines 2014, as our very special international guest judge.
The judges count for 50 per cent of the overall result, the remaining 50 per cent
coming from the public vote through iVOTE on the contestant’s own Facebook pages.
Tonight we will be taking you to the Philippines, where our finalists enjoyed an
amazing nine-night retreat, and you may have noticed tonight’s star prize, parked at
the foot of the SKY Tower, the Honda Jazz RS Sport Limited, which the winner will be
driving for the year of her reign. We are honoured to welcome Honda as a Premium
Platinum Sponsor.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of our sponsors, they all feature
in this programme. Their support is crucial to our success and so I urge you in turn to
support all of them.
All that remains from me is a final ‘Good Luck’ to our Top 20 and I very much hope
that you enjoy tonight’s show.
Nigel Godfrey
Executive Director & Producer
Miss Universe New Zealand
NEW AND BESPOKE TROPHIES BY
115 Main Highway, Ellerslie, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
www.ellersliejewellers.co.nz
Phone: 09 579 5673 Fax: 09 579 5698
Email: [email protected]
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
A welcome from the Executive Producer
Mabuhay!
The Tourism Promotions Board Philippines extends its appreciation to the delegates
of Miss Universe New Zealand for visiting our country. Your visit has strengthened the
tourism ties between the Philippines and New Zealand and also opened an opportunity
for us to showcase the striking beauty, hospitality, and unique experiences that await
visitors coming to the country.
With the variety of tourist spots and diverse attractions that you visited – pristine
white sand beaches and snorkeling sites in Cebu; hills that looks like perfect mounds
of chocolate and adorable small primates, the tarsiers, in Bohol, and; cultural and
historical walking tour in Intramuros, Manila – we trust that you took pleasure in
your adventure and discovery of the many wonders our country has to offer. In the
Philippines, everything is colourful and vibrant – from the food, music and arts to
lifestyle and entertainment, to sports and adventure, history and culture, you will not
run out of things to do and experience. Combined with the hospitality and exuberance
of the Filipinos, we are certain that you will bring home a lot of memories and first-hand
experience of why “it is more fun in the Philippines!”
We are sure that you enjoyed your stay and that each and every one of you will become
ambassadors of the Philippines.
I wish all candidates the best and look forward to seeing all of you again soon.
Maraming salamat po!
Domingo Ramon Enerio III
Chief Operating Officer
Tourism Promotions Board
Are
the
you
next
Miss Universe?
If you think you, or someone
you know, has got what it takes
to become the next
Miss Universe New Zealand,
head to www.nextmissnz.com
and register your interest now.
KEEP
CALM
AND
WEAR A
TIARA
U
®
MISSVUNIVERSE
NEW ZEALAND
www.nextmissnz.com
U
NEW ZEALAND
The Miss Universe New Zealand
Grand Final Charity Gala
SKYCITY Theatre
Saturday 24th October, 7.30 p.m.
Tonight’s Grand Final
®
MISSVUNIVERSE
Interval
During the Interval
‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines with Miss Universe New Zealand’ will screen
Performance from Prestige
Elimination from 20 to 11
Performance from Russell Dixon and the Top 11 Parade
Performance from Meryl Cassie
Elimination from 11 to 5
Meet the Top 5
A Tribute to Variety
Announcement of the Winner of Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Crowning of Miss Universe New Zealand
At the end of the show, accredited Media and Platinum Sponsors are invited onto the stage for photos and at
the conclusion, Miss Universe New Zealand and the entire team will adjourn to bartwentyone at SKYCITY
for the Official After-Party.
(Some tickets are still available and may be purchased during the interval.)
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Introduction from the Executive Producer Nigel Godfrey
Performance from Filipianz and the Variety Voices Choir
Welcome your Hosts: Stephen McIvor & Sonia Gray
Opening Number – Meet the Finalists
Meet the Judges
‘Let’s take a look back’ … a Retrospective on the Year That Has Been
Bench/ and Vero Moda Parade
Rachel’s Journey: Miss Universe New Zealand 2014
The Swimwear Collection Part One
Performance from Mae Valley
The Swimwear Collection Part Two
The Evening Gown Parade
(proudly sponsored by Golden Gown Boutique)
THERE IS AN INSTAX
FOR EVERYONE
YOUR STYLE.YOUR CHOICE
#instaxnz
/instantphotofun
/instaxnz
/fujifilmnz
My life changed forever on January 25, 2015, when I won
the title of Miss Universe in Doral, Miami, Florida. It has
been over 50 years since a Colombian woman has worn
the Miss Universe crown and I am grateful that I have the
opportunity to make my country proud throughout my
reign. Being an ambassador for Colombia is an honour
while I travel the world as Miss Universe.
Working with charitable organizations is another
important responsibility that I have this year, a job I am
grateful to fulfil! I am determined to make a huge impact
this year giving back to people that need support, and
being an advocate for causes that are important to me
and the organization.
To each one of the contestants competing, be confident in yourself and the goals
that you want to achieve. Tonight is just the beginning of an amazing journey. Enjoy
each moment!
MISS UNIVERSE
Message from Paulina Vega,
Miss Universe 2014
Every year, women from across the world
join in one place to compete for the
prestigious title of Miss Universe. Their
journey starts here, where one lucky
contestant will be given the opportunity
to represent her country at the next Miss
Universe pageant.
The Miss Universe Organization
offers the world’s most beautiful and
accomplished women the opportunity
of a lifetime when they participate in our
global event. Coming from all different
backgrounds and walks of life, the women
who compete for Miss Universe develop
lifelong friendships and memories with
the other contestants when they enter
this extraordinary sisterhood.
Our pageants allow people, no
matter their nationality or religion, to
recognize and understand that beauty is
diverse; beauty is universal and nothing
is more beautiful than confidence, self-
awareness and a willingness to grow as
a person.
On behalf of our organization, I
would like to congratulate each of the
women participating in tonight’s pageant.
Although only one of you will be able to go
and represent New Zealand at the next
Miss Universe pageant, I hope that each
of you enjoy this experience and use it as
an opportunity for personal growth and
learning. No matter what challenge you
face in life, take it head on, and strive to
be the best you can be.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt
thanks to Nigel and Jack at Miss
Universe New Zealand, and the friends
and families of our contestants for all their
hard work, encouragement and support.
Paula M. Shugart, President
Miss Universe Organization
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Message from Paula Shugart, President, Miss Universe
Nigel
Godfrey,
Executive
Director
Camps
which
saw
contestants
from around the nation, our Top 20
announcement followed in August. By
linking these announcements to social
media (you can see more at facebook.
com/missuniversenz and through the
hashtag #MUNZ), we have a very keen
audience follow us, particularly as
we ventured to the Philippines for our
finalists’ retreat, with the support of
BENCH/, the Philippine Department of
Tourism and the TPB.
Taking in the beauty of the country, as
well as interacting with the people and
absorbing their incredible culture, our
Top 20, along with Rachel Millns, Miss
Universe New Zealand 2014, kept their
supporters riveted during the retreat and
in the lead-up to tonight’s Grand Final.
Tonight sees Rachel hand over her
crown and we will share some of her
story over the last 12 months. We have
seen her ably carry out her duties as
Miss Universe New Zealand and we will
be sad to see her go. However, we’re
also very excited, as we’re sure all of you
are, to see who her successor will be,
and who will represent our nation in the
US at Miss Universe.
Thank you for attending and
have a wonderful
evening.
Jack Yan,
General
Counsel
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
As you can see from the presence of
some of the world’s great brands on the
cover, 2015 marks a banner year for Miss
Universe New Zealand as our competition
goes from strength to strength.
We’re honoured to partner with
Honda New Zealand, BENCH/, the
Philippine Department of Tourism
and the Tourism Promotions’ Board,
SKYCITY Auckland, Bike Barn, The
Quadrant Hotel Auckland, Golden
Gowns, UFC and Beau Joie. The first
name in that list is very poignant, as
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015 will
get the keys to the brand-new Honda
Jazz RS Sport Limited during her reign.
If she prefers two wheels, Bike Barn has
that covered.
We are grateful to see SKYCITY
Auckland and Golden Gowns return, and
it is thanks to them and all our sponsors
that we can continue our contributions
to Variety, the Children’s Charity, as well
as the Father Ray Foundation in Thailand
and Tahan-Tahanan in the Philippines.
Over the last two years we have
raised $62,000 for Variety. Although
Miss Universe New Zealand is a limited
company, it is one that considers an
annual charitable
contribution integral
to its ethos.
This year, after
the three Stiletto
Miss Universe NZ
Introduction from Miss Universe New Zealand
H OT E L
&
S U I T E S
on
i
t
a
c
i
t
s
i
h
op
er
s
h
t
e
&
g
e
l
o
t
y
t
t
s
h
e
g
i
n
er
h
w nd the
spe
0800 66 66 11
thequadrant.com
TONIGHT’S ENTERTAINERS
Mae Valley, consisting of musicians Abby
Christodoulou and Hannah Cosgrove, charmed
our screens on The X Factor New Zealand. Both
eliminated at boot camp, the girls were given a
second lease of life, reconstructed as a duo, winning
the wildcard vote and eventually leaving the show at
7th place. Their week one cover of ‘If I Die Young’
reached number 10 in the New Zealand artists’
singles chart, along with two other songs that made
the New Zealand Top 20. Recently announced as Sony’s first post-X Factor signing
and backed by management company Smoke Music, Mae Valley is continuing on
from their success from show; in hot demand on stage and working on their début EP.
Prestige Dance Crew, formed in 2003, is
considered one of the most influential in New
Zealand street dance. Their experience includes
international competitions, in which they have
always ranked in the top 10. They are unique
entertainers, fusing hip-hop choreography
with acrobatics and humour. They successfully
participated in NZ’s Got Talent through to the
semifinals. Past appearances include the Super
15 Blues 2013 season, Junior FIFA World Cup
2015, and the NRL Warriors 2015 season.
Meryl Cassie began her TV career in What Now?, before
being cast in a lead role in The Tribe, in which she appeared
for seven years. Her television credits are extensive, from
Hercules and Shortland Street to The Jono Project. In 2010,
she guest-starred alongside Miss Universe New Zealand CEO
Nigel Godfrey in Legend of the Seeker … it’s a small world! In
her musical career, she performed on The Tribe soundtrack
and recorded the lead vocals for One Night Only and Karaoke
High. She continues to write and perform music today, while
being Mum to her three children, Rylon, Breeze and Diaz.
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Russell Dixon first came to national attention as a presenter
on TV3, but a few years ago, he left our shores for the UK
to pursue his dream of working in professional theatre. He
achieved incredible success, touring the UK with Blood
Brothers and various other high-profile productions. In 2012,
he joined the cast of the triple Olivier Award-winning theatrical
musical Top Hat at the Aldwych Theatre on London’s West
End, in the leading role of Alberto Beddini. Russell has now
returned to Auckland to live, and is a sought-after actor,
presenter and entertainer.
GOLDEN GOWNS
Ankia van der Berg and her husband Gert are the force behind the Golden Gown Boutique.
Miss Universe New Zealand considers itself extremely lucky to have forged what is an
extraordinary and unique partnership with such an esteemed designer.
www.goldengown.co.nz Telephone 021 136-8865
Specializing in Beautiful and Unique Special Occasion Evening Wear
including Bridesmaids’ and Work Function Dresses
Nickie Slater, 26, is a primary school teacher, writer
and wellness enthusiast from Tauranga. She lives in
Lower Hutt where she teaches Year 3–4 children and is
a team and e-learning leader at her school.
In 2014, Nickie received a scholarship to visit Japan
through the Asia New Zealand Foundation. Later that
year, she was awarded a Linking Minds scholarship and
travelled to Wales for two weeks.
These international travel experiences motivated
Nickie to broaden her perspectives through connecting
with more countries and cultures. She has travelled to
Fiji, Australia, England, Spain, Morocco, Wales, Japan
and, most recently, the Philippines.
On her website nickielinaire.co.nz, she shares healthy
recipes, wellness tips and stories of inspiration from
her daily life. Nickie enjoys making art, crossfit, yoga,
camping, renovating her house, running, walking her
dog and having dinner parties with her friends and family.
‘It has been so exciting to see positive changes already
taking place in my life as a result of my journey with
Miss Universe New Zealand. I look forward to sharing
my story with other women, to inspire them to face their
fears and seize opportunities in life, too.’
Nickie Slater
‘I have made so many amazing friends and learnt so much about myself. It feels like I have
already won so much from this competition already!’
Sophie Batten
Meet the top 20
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Sophie Batten
Sophie Batten, 21, was born and raised in the beautiful
city of sails, Auckland. She graduated last year with a
Bachelor of Arts in event management. She currently
works at Fujifilm as a full-time receptionist.
She enjoys cake decorating, cooking, going to the
gym and playing games. Her favourites are Runescape
and Call of Duty Black Ops.
She entered Miss Universe New Zealand after her
cousin mentioned it to her and said she should enter.
Sophie entered not knowing she would come this far.
This is the first time Sophie has entered a competition
like this. She feels as though no matter what happens
in the competition, she has already gained confidence
in herself, more self-esteem and some amazing friends.
Sophie recommends this all the girls out there who
are thinking about entering: stop thinking about it, just
do it, you won’t regret it.
Aqua
JEWELS BY
OUR SPONSOR FAMILY
Graphics to come, already phoned
Welcome to the world of
Samala Cosmetics.
Explore … discover … create.
Anita Du Plessis Dutton, the
Founder and CEO of Jewels by
Aqua, designed the original crown
for Miss Universe New Zealand.
Anita’s unique skill is to design
spectacular but affordable costume
jewellery for any occasion.
Visit Jewels by Aqua at www.
aquajewelsonline.com or like them
on Facebook at facebook.com/
aquajewls.
www.samalacosmetics.com
This year marks our 17 years in serving
the community with independent, unbiased
advice in helping you book all your holidays,
packages, group bookings, cruises, and very
competitive airfares for your journey.
69A Manners Street, Wellington DX SP21012
Tel: (04) 499-0909 [email protected]
www.luckytravel.co.nz
Zap Thai have been part of the Miss Universe New Zealand sponsor
family from the beginning and we were delighted to once again to
have their support in this year’s competition.
KEEP
CALM
10 Commerce Street
Auckland CBD
Phone (09) 379-5902
AND
EAT
THAI
U
1200 Great North Road
Point Chevalier, Auckland
Phone (09) 849-6662
®
MISSVUNIVERSE
NEW ZEALAND
Keep calm and eat Thai A1.indd 1
“Life is a journey, travel it well.”
2013-10-01 3.34:34 a.m.
639 Dominion Road
Balmoral, Auckland
Phone (09) 638-6393
Mei Barry
Meet the top 20
Olivia McCabe
Mei Barry is 23 years old and training to be a life
directional coach. She was born in Japan and moved to
New Zealand at age 11. At 17, she travelled throughout
South America, Europe and Canada experiencing many
different cultures. This opened her mind to the different
customs and different ways people think.
‘I believe we can all be who we really want to be, but
often in the world, we hide our dreams because it’s not
what society sees as acceptable. My goal is to inspire
people and give them the confidence in themselves to
be able shine and be their true self.
‘Miss Universe New Zealand has pushed me to step
out of my comfort zone and allowed me to take a closer
look at the person I am, giving me the confidence to
chase my dreams and set higher goals for myself. I
am so thankful for this opportunity as I have gained so
much out of this.’
‘Miss Universe New Zealand hasn’t only provided me with self-development opportunities
but it has also allowed me to create so many new friendships. It’s been a blessing to be able
Aalimah Rahman
to share this journey with 19 beautiful, honest and caring ladies.’
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Olivia McCabe, 19, lives in Feilding. She is currently
working as a dental assistant, while studying extramurally.
Hockey has always been Olivia’s passion and she
represented her province as a teen.She competed in
Miss Teen Manawatu in 2011, reaching the top five, and
has been involved in modelling and photography. She is
a confident, compassionate young woman who enjoys
spending time with family and friends.
Olivia lists fashion and op-shopping among her
interests. This won her first prize at the Fashion in the
Field Race Meeting in March 2015, wearing an entire ‘op
shop ensemble’ styled from hat to heel for $50.
She says, ‘I have always been a happy and content
small-town girl, but always with the ambition to challenge
myself. To do this I take opportunities to experience
what life has to offer out there, and what I can offer
in return. My Miss Universe NZ journey thus far has
certainly exceeded any expectations, with memorable
events, amazing friendships, and an overall once in a
lifetime experience. I am truly grateful and humbled at
having this incredible opportunity.’
MEET THE TOP 20
Rachael Annear
Rachael Annear is an energetic, bubbly 21-year-old
studying towards a Bachelor of Education. She wanted
to be a primary school teacher since she was very young
and is excited to follow her passion. It is this passion that
inspired her to enter Miss Universe New Zealand.
Rachael’s dream is to become a positive role model for
young girls. She has modelled to build her confidence,
and has had the opportunity to act in various shows and
dress up as a Disney princess for events.
Rachael was raised in Wellington but moved to the
Bay of Plenty with her family nine years ago, and loves
being in the warm city of Tauranga. She loves spending
her time outdoors: going to the beach, surfing, finding
new walking tracks and hanging out with friends. She
also enjoys spending her time baking, dancing and
anything to do with art. In college, she spent her time
dabbling in painting, art, design, and photography.
She loves being behind the camera as much as being
in front of it. Rachael hopes to travel after her degree,
especially to Europe, and see the town she was born
in, Amsterdam.
Salibonani! From the warm African sunsets to the land
of the long white cloud, Aalimah Rahman, 25, moved
to New Zealand when she was 11. Although her roots
are in Africa she is now definitely a Kiwi and the thought
of potentially being able to represent New Zealand in
Miss Universe is very humbling and exciting to her.
Aalimah enjoys ceroc dancing, trying new recipes,
travelling and being exposed to new cultures and food.
‘From a very young age, my parents taught me the
value of a dollar and not only should we all be very
grateful for what we’ve been blessed with, but we
should also use these blessings to help those who
aren’t able to help themselves,’ she says. ‘It’s been an
absolute pleasure to be able to work with Variety, the
Children’s Charity, and I’d like to thank everyone who
donated to the contestants’ Everyday Heroes pages.
We can take comfort in knowing that many children
and their families lives have been improved thanks to
our efforts. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed learning more about
myself and experiencing new things.’
Aalimah
Rahman
‘Experiencing another country’s culture was highly rewarding. Taking part in the Entre­
preneurial Challenge has created a platform for me to pay it forward by helping to raise
Samantha McClung
money for disadvantaged Kiwi children.’
SKYCITY AND GRAY BARTLETT NZEA LTD PRESENT
’S
ND
A
AL WN
ZE Y O
W R
NE VE
D
OM
FR
T
EC SA
IR U
Che Orton as ELVIS PRESLEY in
THE ROCK’N’ROLL YEARS
Cookie Watkins as
TINA TURNER in TINA
Saturday 14 November
Saturday 21 November
DI
OM
FR
CT A
RE US
OM
FR A
C T AD
R E AN
I
D C
Wayne Catania and Kieron Lafferty in
DAN ACKROYD AND
JUDY BELUSHI’S
BLUES BROTHERS REVUE
Bobby Bruce as Neil Diamond
in his show
THE BEAUTIFUL NOISE
featuring Ashleigh Toole as Barbra Streisand
Saturday 28 November
Friday 4 December
6922
Book your seat now through Ticketek ticketek.co.nz
or SKYCITY skycityauckland.co.nz/whats-on
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
The Philippines
#1 spray tan provider
in New Zealand!
Find out why...
Two Christchurch locations
213a Waimairi Road
Ilam, (03) 358 2883
Shop 3, 159 Cranford Street
St Albans, (03) 355 1174
get
fruity
WITH OASIS BEAUTY
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
FACE MASK & SCRUB
IN ONE NAUGHTY
LITTLE NUMBER
Auckland location
Shop 10c, 35 Saint Johns Rd
Saint Johns, Auckland
(09) 521 5887
YOU
KNOW
YOU
WANT IT
Gold Coast location
Shop 1, 110 Monaco St
Broadbeach Waters
(07) 5527 6752
BOOK ONLINE
www.sunkissedtan.co.nz
oasisbeauty.nz
Premier Hairdressing Academy is based8/10/15
in three fantastic locations: Auckland,
Napier and Wellington.
We are the specialist New Zealand
Hairdressing training academy.
OB-Get-Fruity-ad-Miss-Universe-2015-10.indd 1
Visit us at premierhairdressing.ac.nz.
Learn to
create beauty!
www.sramakeup.com
9:52:45
Ella Wilson
MEET THE TOP 20
Jordarn Ratu
Ella Wilson, 27, spent her childhood growing up in
rural Australia and now lives in Auckland. With two New
Zealand parents and extended family in New Zealand,
her holidays were spent exploring the North Island.
She has completed a Bachelor of Arts, double
majoring in literature and philosophy, and uses these
genealist skills in her everyday work and personal life.
She works in real estate as a personal assistant, dealing
with the high-end properties along the North Shore.
She says that real estate is perfectly suited to her for its
client relationship aspects and the competitive nature of
the industry.
Ella has undertaken acting training for both screen
and theatre, seeing her be part of a number of
productions and advertisements. Modelling is also part
of her repertoire. From a young age Ella loved to play
music and has sung in a number of bands in Australia.
Nowadays she enjoys playing the ukelele and singing.
Ella entered this competition to try something new.
She feels proud to be a finalist and the experiences
she has had throughout her journey will stay with her
for a lifetime.
‘Being in Miss Universe New Zealand has has pushed me out of my comfort zone and has
taught me many skills which have helped me grow as a person.’
Rachael Annear
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Jordarn Ratu, 23, works for the Auckland Council as a
customer service representative. She lived on the Gold
Coast for the last eight years before returning to Aotearoa
to live. She loves spending time with family and friends,
making art and jewellery, drawing, and design.
She entered Miss Universe New Zealand to see
how far she could push herself, build her confidence,
and open up her career options. This competition has
given her all of that and more, she says, with the biggest
addition the opportunity to raise money for Variety, the
Children’s Charity, and give back to the ones who need
it most. ‘Making the finals of the Miss Universe New
Zealand competition has given me the opportunity to
show others that they can achieve whatever they put their
minds to. It has also opened up doors to the future for my
future career and given me the confidence to go out and
get it,’ says Jordarn.
Auckland’s favourite dance studio!
Viva Dance, located in central Auckland, is all
about bringing fun, friendship and enjoyment to
people’s lives through the medium of DANCE.
Learn to dance, make friends, and get fit with our
classes in Salsa, Burlesque, Zumba, Pole fitness,
Jazz, Hip Hop, Zouk, Samba, Belly Dance, Bachata
and more, at our purpose-built Auckland central
city studio with plenty of parking.
Come along let us help you discover what dancing
can do for you!
New Zealand Made
High Potency Formulations
Not Available in Supermarkets
1-A-DAY… The GO Healthy Way ™
10 Newton Rd Newton « 376 7900 « vivadance.co.nz
www.gohealthy.co.nz
Purchase any product from the
extensive Audio-Technica range
and receive 15% off with this ad.*
0154GH Miss Universe Advert.indd 1
9/10/15 10:44
JANSEN PROFESSIONAL AUDIO
THE POWER BEHIND NZ MUSIC SINCE 1949
624 Rosebank Road, Avondale, Auckland 1026
* Exclusive only to Jansen Professional Audio. Not in conjunction with any other promotional offer.
While stocks last.
Started in 1999 in a food caravan in Napier
by Nattachai Changrattanachaichok, known
affectionately as Chang, Thai Chef’s now
has four branches in Auckland, Napier, New
Plymouth and Wellington.
Check them out at www.thaichef.co.nz.
Karishma Govind, 23, has been given the opportunity
of a lifetime and could not be happier with the results.
Zimbabwean-born, she now calls New Zealand home.
She wants to make a change in the world whether it
be big or small. She is a strong believer in empowering
and motivating women by creating a movement which
breaks the chain of double standards.
She graduated with her bachelor’s degree, majoring in
psychology and physiology, and wants to further pursue
her master’s in child psychology. She loves fitness,
make-up shopping and spending time with friends
and family. She treats every experience as a chance
to grow and so far Miss Universe has been the most
life-changing experience. As she continues to grow out
of her shell she has become stronger and motivated to
keep shining and growing.
On her quest to make a change. she and her sisters
want to teach women all around the world self-defence
in countries where they are suppressed: ‘What better
way to teach a woman courage than to make her feel
powerful?’
Other than these adventures she is all about having
fun, experiencing new things and living in the moment.
Karishma
Govind
‘All the memorable events, amazing friendships, and the privilege of being involved in
spreading the word and raising funds for Variety, the Children’s Charity. All these “once in
Olivia McCabe
a lifetime” experiences have exceeded my expectations.’
MEET THE TOP 20
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Elizabeth Baird
Elizabeth Baird, 20, was born in Jamaica. With her
Kiwi father and Jamaican mother, they made their way
to New Zealand when Elizabeth was five to start a
new life in Wellington. She brought with her a vibrant,
carefree attitude and the nation’s love for Miss Universe.
Elizabeth’s passion for fashion comes from her mother,
a fully trained seamstress and designer, so naturally she
is studying towards her diploma at the New Zealand
Institute of Fashion.
With her hectic student life and working out at her
local gym, Elizabeth makes time for photo shoots.
Gaining more experience and confidence in her unique
look, Elizabeth thought it was high time to enter Miss
Universe and accomplish a life-long dream.
‘Entering Miss Universe New Zealand has helped me
to realize the value of my diverse ethnic background,
and being different is beautiful,’ she says.
MEET THE Hosts
Your hosts
Stephen McIvor
is very well known
to
SKY
Sport
audiences through­
out the country,
having
served
as senior anchor
since its first day of
broadcast in 1991.
He’s covered every
sport imaginable,
including the Olympics and the Rugby
World Cup, and has a passion for
television. Tonight sees Stephen cover a
competition of a very different kind as he
takes up the MC duties for Miss Universe
New Zealand. Stephen is married and
the proud father of three children.
Sonia Gray is
accustomed
to telling New
Zealand who has
won each week,
as Lotto’s main
presenter,
but
tonight the win
she’ll announce
is of a different
kind entirely. With Zimbabwean and Kiwi
pākehā roots, her career has spanned
modelling through to acting, including
roles in Shortland Street, Xena, Hercules
and Samoan Wedding, and Sonia is
an active spokeswoman for the Mental
Health Foundation. Sonia is married with
twin daughters, Inez and Thandie.
Special international guest judges
Ben Chan is one of the Philippines’ most admired
entrepreneurs. He studied in San Francisco and
worked abroad before returning home to the
Philippines in the 1980s. With an innate talent
for design and reading the market-place, Ben
set up BENCH/ in 1987. As founder, chairman
and executive creative director of BENCH/,
Ben was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year
in the Philippines in 2013. BENCH/ embodies
Filipino style and is well known internationally for its fashion-forward approach. It has
numerous sister brands, including Vero Moda, another leading fashion label, and has
diversified into a retail portfolio that includes hair and beauty salons.
Mary Jean (‘MJ’) Lastimosa is Miss Universe Philippines
2014, and is well known in her home country for her
entrepreneurial talent, running her own fitness centre in
Davao City, and for her acting chops, having made her
début in Maalaala Mo Kaya, a long-running prime-time
drama anthology series. MJ is proud of her Arab–Filipino
heritage, and this featured in her MMK story. She holds
a Bachelor of Science in computer engineering from the
University of Mindanao. PETA named her the Philippines’
Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity for 2014.
MEET THE judges
Megan Alatini first rose to prominence in the TV show
Popstars, a forerunner of Idol and other music talent shows, in
which the band, TrueBliss, was created. She has been a judge
of NZ Idol, and tonight, she returns as a judge at Miss Universe
New Zealand. Born in South Africa, Megan and her family
moved to New Zealand in the 1980s. Megan has also acted
on screen, and had many years in Japan, where her husband
played rugby.
Evana Patterson is a former director of Miss Universe New Zealand,
director of the Head2Heels women’s empowerment workshop, an
award-winning make-up artist, and, most recently, a contributor
to Living Well magazine. Evana has been involved in the modelling
world for over a decade, including within agencies, and has directed
many fashion shoots. She also works with World TV on the annual
Miss Chinese Cosmos and Miss Chinese New Zealand competitions.
If this isn’t enough to keep her busy, she is also an image consultant,
personal trainer, and Mum to her four-year-old daughter Mila.
Areena Deshpande is a social practitioner, motivational
speaker and visionary leader who runs Unique Appearances, a
consultancy specializing in helping people find educational and
job opportunities. Her professional experience has come from a
tragedy: at age 2, Areena survived a horrific car fire which left her
five-year-old sister dead. She is an advocate for educating and
spreading awareness on burns, with a goal of providing a mutual
understanding within society between those who have endured
such injuries and those who have not.
MJ flew to NZ on
Philippine
Airlines
Flying Manila to Auckland directly from December 1
www.flypal.com
Miss Universe chooses to book through Lucky Travel, www.luckytravel.co.nz
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
The very talented Steve Broad com­
peted on both NZ Idol (where he came
third) and The X Factor NZ (where he came fifth). A natural
musician, he was born in Invercargill and has a nationwide
following, but Southland remains his spiritual home, where
locals delighted in his performances in Invercargill Musical
Theatre’s productions of Grease and Mamma Mia. Steve holds
a teaching degree, and when he finds the time, writes his own
material. He plans to release an EP.
OUR SPONSOR FAMILY
Silver Sponsors
These organizations have supported MISS UNIVERSE NEW
ZEALAND 2015 through Silver Sponsorships.
www.lalstransport.co.nz
Ram’s Logistics Ltd.
Bronze Sponsors
These organizations have supported Miss Universe New Zealand
2015 through Bronze Sponsorships.
LIQUOR LA AVENUE
Your locally owned and operated liquor outlet
E N A C T
enspire
F I T N E S S
.
empower
.
enact
PORT
OHOPE
GENERAL
STORE
& CAFE
OWNER / OPERATOR
Ashlee Dean
a
ST FISH
cafe
Surf instructor, animal lover, actor and brand ambassador
pretty much sums up Hannah Henderson. Spending
three years at Surf College while graduating high school
allowed her to gain her Outdoor Recreation Instructor
Leadership qualification. Having coached people from all
over the world, Hannah has gained experience working
with other cultures and learned to respect their beliefs.
Hannah has attended acting school since the age of
14, and for the past six months she has filmed for MTV
on a new series.
Travel, lifestyle fitness and horse-riding are some of
the more relaxing things she enjoys.
Hannah says, ‘Always believe in yourself and make
the most of opportunities put before you is the way I
live my life. I am enjoying my Miss Universe journey as a
young empowered Generation Z woman. The friends I
have made and the many people I have met has made
this a great and unforgettable experience.’
Hannah
Henderson
‘I have gained so much such as wonderful connections with many people, an ability to push
myself to achieve things I never thought I would, and self-confidence.’
MEET THE TOP 20
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Samantha
McClung
Samantha McClung believes some of the most
influential events happen earliest in life and shape you.
Samantha has lived on several farms and attended
seven different schools. When she was 8, she moved
to the Marlborough Sounds, where growing up fishing,
building huts, swimming with dolphins and catching
jellyfish was normal.
After high school, Samantha achieved her diploma in
make-up artistry at the Kristen Stewart School of Makeup, passing with distinction. She then moved to Perth
for 18 months working as a makeup artist.
Samantha now lives in Christchurch and works as a
loan consultant for Moola. Outside of work Samantha
can be found in the gym, modelling or giving someone a
makeover! Samantha says, ‘If I were to win Miss Universe
New Zealand 2015 I would love to help promote this
beautiful country we live in. And for our young children,
promote the fact that inner beauty is as important as
outer beauty, and events that happen early in life help
shape you into the person that you will become.’
Mei Barry
MEET THE TOP 20
Layla Dole
Layla Dole, 23, is New Zealand-born with Sri Lankan–
Malay blood, and currently in her last semester at
university studying sports and exercise science,
psychology and criminology. She entered Miss Universe
New Zealand because she had experienced trauma and
fallen into downward spirals before, and wanted to show
that you can make it through no matter how big or small
your goal may be.
‘Entering Miss Universe New Zealand meant I had
to face on my anxieties towards public speaking and
being body-conscious head on,’ says Layla. ‘It’s
definitely helped me work on my confidence. I thought
all pageants were focused on a specific “ideal” for a
female to fit in to; however, my experience in Miss
Universe New Zealand has been far from focused on
beauty but building business skills whilst giving back to
the community.’
Layla’s passions lie in kickboxing, dance and helping
others. She would love to work with at-risk youth or in
an environment where she can help people grow.
Monique Thomas-Long, 23, is from Hawke’s Bay, but
the Bay of Plenty is where she resides, working at some
of New Zealand’s top radio stations including ZM and
The Hits. Monique is passionate about radio, holding a
Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications along with
her Associate Diploma in Speech and Drama.
While studying in Christchurch, Monique exper­
ienced a life-changing experience going through the
Christchurch earthquakes. At 21, she hopped on a
plane solo to travel Europe and she has also explored
parts of Asia, the Cook Islands, Singapore and, of
course, the Philippines on the Top 20 retreat! Monique
loves to entertain and make people laugh, and has
MCed some of the Bay of Plenty’s largest events across
fashion, food and sport.
Monique entered Miss Universe New Zealand to
influence change, both in her own life and for the kids
who benefit from Variety. She believes she would be
an amazing ambassador for self-belief and sees Miss
Universe New Zealand as an incredible platform to help
other Kiwi women believe in themselves.
Monique
Thomas-Long
‘Confidence was a key I lacked and I truly have never felt so confident before. It amazes me
how Miss Universe New Zealand has given me a stepping stone that I always needed to
Karishma Govind
pursue my bigger dreams.’
Gabrielle Manaloto is a mental health nurse, currently
working in the child and family unit. ‘There are so many
avenues for nurses these days and I think I found my
niche in mental health. I have listening skills second to
none! But more importantly, I have always had an interest
in children, youth and social issues and I am so proud
to meet and help the real heroes of our community, the
kids who one day will be leaders,’ she says. She is also
doing post-graduate studies in mental health nursing.
Gabrielle is full Filipino, and came to New Zealand
in 2007 with family. She lives in Auckland. ‘I am proud
to be Filipino and feel lucky that I am still fluent in the
language and have the culture as a huge part of me,’ she
says. Her journey to the Philippines as part of the Top
20 retreat—her first since she came to New Zealand—
proved that: ‘the locals easily identified that I was one of
them!’ Gabrille, a New Zealand citizen, considers New
Zealand her home with her family and friends all here.
Gabrielle
Manaloto
‘To find great friends and share in this amazing and unforgettable adventure makes for longlasting memories and is something I will take away with me forever.’
MEET THE TOP 20
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Becky Hingston
Becky Hingston, 25, is from Dunedin, and in her final
year of marine biology at university. She hopes to use
her knowledge as a platform to educate the public about
the importance of research and conservation. She is an
advocate for women’s health and well-being and believe
that women should feel beautiful in their own skin and
strive for success in everything they do.
She redesigns and renovate houses between
her studies, and hopes to start her own property
renovation business, working in an environmentally and
economically friendly way.
Coming from an army family, she travelled the world
from a really young age, living in places like Syria.
Growing up with a strong foundation of cultural and
political diversity, she became extremely culturally and
socioeconomically aware.
‘I love challenging myself, whether it’s skydiving,
beating my personal bests or eating weird foods. I love
to laugh and believe that you can’t take yourself too
seriously,’ adds Becky.
Ella Wilson
UFC Coconut Water is 100%
natural coconut water from
“the coconut belt” in Thailand
where the world’s most
delicious coconuts are grown.
Inside the coconut is the
most remarkable “fluid of life”.
Available at New World, Pak ’n’
Save, Countdown, Four Square
and other retailers nationwide.
Evelyne Dawe, from Tauranga, has done dance and
theatre from a young age. She started ballet at the age
of 4, and has been involved in seven theatre productions
in the last three years (including Grease, Show Business,
Curse of the Pearl Necklace, and Jesus Christ
Superstar), but this is Evelyne’s first time doing anything
in beauty competitions. She has not decided a career
path yet, but wants a job that will allow her creativity and
personality to be used. This year, Evelyne spent her gap
year working as a receptionist at a law firm.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading murder mysteries,
being involved in local theatre, and watching behindthe-scenes footage from her favourite films.
Miss Universe New Zealand has been a fantastic
experience, she has loved meeting so many different
people throughout this journey.
Evelyne Dawe
‘I have valued the opportunity to travel to the Philippines and having the ability to see the
contrast. It has really opened my eyes to what we take for granted and seeing they battle on,
Jordarn Ratu
day in and day out.’
MEET THE TOP 20
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Kaitlin Wood
Kaitlin Wood, 21, in her fourth and final year of
studying a Bachelor in Business Management, major­
ing in marketing and strategic management with
honours. Being of Ngāti Kuia descent, Kaitlin also has
proud Irish and Scottish heritage. She calls Tauranga
home, but currently lives in Hamilton while working
part-time for Fonterra.
Kaitlin describes herself as being creative with a
passion for graphic design, art and fashion. She also
enjoys cooking and spending time with her family. She
plays volleyball and netball and goes to the gym. Kaitlin
plans to run her own business, as well as having the
opportunity to travel the world and gain even more lifechanging experiences.
‘When I think about Miss Universe New Zealand, I
see someone who is an all-rounder, who can be a role
model for the nation and connect to a wide audience.
This competition is a great opportunity and experience
which I am so thankful to be a part of,’ she says.
OUR SPONSOR FAMILY
For a free consultation call
- 0800 NEW FACE ADDRESS:
5 Morgan Street (off Carlton Gore Rd), Newmarket
OPENING HOURS:
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat: 10am to 6pm
Thu: 10am to 7pm | Sun: Closed
Phone: 0800 NEW FACE (0800 639 3223)
Email: [email protected]
Web: newface.co.nz
Sharne Boot
MEET THE TOP 20
Ronita Lal
Sharne Boot is 20 years old, with Māori and Dutch
heritage. She was born in the Waikato, grew up on a
farm and moved to Auckland when she was four.
She has a passion for modelling, business, travel
and culture. With her family, she has been fortunate
to have explored a wide range of countries including
Japan, Sweden, Rarotonga and Thailand. Sharne has
ambitious goals, and dedicated herself to working as
hard as possible though her high school years, working
two part-time jobs at a Mexican restaurant and a local
coffee shop. Since then, she spent two years working
at Hyundai New Zealand. Following on, she started
her own recycling business which she still runs, doing
deliveries in her truck and making sure her books are in
order. She also has a passion for fitness and well-being.
‘This passion has enabled me with confidence to
inspire and motivate more individuals to be fit, healthy
to embrace their own beauty and to step out of their
comfort zones,’ she says. ‘This motivates me to be
the best version of myself and it is why I entered Miss
Universe New Zealand.’
‘Our trip to the Philippines was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and travelling this journey
would not have been half as fulfilling without the nineteen other girls who have been the best
Evelyne Dawe
companions I could ask for. ’
Miss Universe New Zealand 2015
Ronita Lal is 26, raised on the North Shore in Auckland.
She works as an administrator at New Zealand Tertiary
College.
She has gained a passion for modeling and acting
and hopes to advance in this industry further. She
wishes to be a role model for women who struggle with
self-confidence and provide them with the motivation
and skills to succeed in anything they want to do.
‘Entering Miss Universe New Zealand has been an
amazing experience so far and I have learnt so much,
every girl in this competition has such great qualities
and personalities and I’m so glad to have met them all,’
says Ronita.
She is outgoing, vibrant, loves to travel and enjoys
spending time with family and friends. ‘I am determined
to better myself in all aspects and achieve goals that I
have set out for myself. I always ensure to have a positive
and can-do attitude to life and if I fail once, I’ll pick
myself up and try again. It’s all about self-development
and giving it your all. Nothing is impossible.’
Credits
Credits
CEO: Nigel Godfrey
General Counsel: Jack Yan
Production Associate: Aloha Quitat
Miss Universe NZ Grand Final Team
TV Production
Associate Producer: Russell Dixon
Choreographer: Rina Chae
Lighting: Dave Seaton
Show Sound:
Jonny Keating from Bounce NZ
Venue Technicians: Michael Keating,
Emmanuel (Maya) Dorcil
Stage Manager: Kevin Dudman
Executive Producer: Nigel Godfrey
Director: Nigel Carpenter
Technical Director: Brendan Quaife
Live Streaming: Virtual Ticket
Screens: Oceania LED
Field Camera: Cameron Betts
Production Assistants:
Esther Williams & Erika Quitat
Editor: Hills Hurricks
Stills Photographer: Alan Raga
For SKYCITY: Jep Savali & Mark Betty
Event Ticketing: iTICKET
For TPB (Philippines):
Domingo Ramon C. Enerio III, COO
James A. Sy
Micaela B. Ochoa
Programme Concept:
Tanya Sooksombatisatian
For Variety:
Lorraine Taylor & Carly Thomson
And a very special thank-you to the many people who have bought into our vision and offered their
help and assistance along the way, we could not do it without you.
PURIFIED BEE VENOM SKINCARE
natural
Born Fillers
Proven to reduce the
appearance of wrinkles in
just 10 minutes*
Proven to make skin
appear plumped & feel
firmer, as if lifted in
just 10 minutes*
instantly diminishes the appearance
of wrinkles & lifts tired looking skin.
clinically tested to increase skin
firmness & elasticity
in 28 days*
“I’m so glad I’ve been let in on nature’s little
secret. My skin is immediately rejuvenated”
FULL range dermatoLogicaLLY tested. not suitable for people allergic to bee stings.
Use as directed. * independent clinical trial. data on file.
www.manukadr.co.nz
OWN THE KNIGHT
[email protected] www.brandhouse.co.nz
TM