FINDING MISS TARANAKI
Julia Crighton couldn’t believe it when her name was called out as the winner of Miss Taranaki 2018 on Sunday.
Out of 10 contestants, Crighton took out the crown and is still coming to grips with it.
‘‘I had no idea, the judges had such good poker faces,’’ the 19-year-old said.
‘‘It’s awesome to hold the title and be an ambassador for Taranaki.’’
The event, which took place at the Quality Hotel Plymouth International, also raised $6552 for the Taranaki Health Foundation.
Since January contestants had participated in a variety of events including attending rest homes, fundraising at the races, and spending the day at Oakura jewellery studio Ringcraft Moana.
Crighton, a spatial design and marketing student at Massey University, said participating in the events was one of the highlights for her.
‘‘It was really good as it gave you time to bond with the other girls rather than just compete against each other.’’
Crighton said she had always lacked confidence, which held her back from signing up for the competition in previous years.
But with the push from those around her she battled through her fears.
‘‘I have wanted to do it for years and I thought if I don’t do it now I’ll regret it.’’
Crighton believed it was getting out of her comfort zone that made her stand out to judges.
‘‘They’re looking for someone who’s proud being themselves.’’
Kushla Rosser, one of the judges who previously won Miss Taranaki 2003, said they were looking for someone that had an all round presence.
‘‘We were looking for someone that had leadership ability to act as a role model and represent the region. Julia is a strong female with a commanding presence.’’
Rosser was also quick to quash the reputation around beauty pageants.
‘‘There is a stigma around beauty pageants but Miss Taranaki aligns itself with giving back and finding advocates.
‘‘We build social skills and ability in these young women.’’
Other winners included Miss Junior Rani Adamson and Miss Teen Isabella Borostyan.