Courtney-Lee, 18, gained a job working on a beef and cattle farm on the Napier/Taihape Rd after graduating from a course at EIT, but this weekend she will be leaving dust and dirt behind for sunshine and sand.
Beautification preparations for the bikini competition began yesterday, with an eyebrow wax and full body spray tan, "to even out any lines".
In the morning her hair will be styled and bikini donned, before she is ready for her debut on the Miss Waimarama stage.
"It's going to be a bit nerve-racking, but I'm pretty used to it."
Being in the limelight was nothing new for this all-rounder, who entered and won the teen section of a fashion parade at Geon Art Deco Weekend three years in a row, as well as taking the supreme title in 2012. She also modelled a winning garment at last year's Edible Fashion Awards.
"I really enjoy it. I would say I'm pretty confident."
More FM breakfast host and Miss Waimarama judge, Kevin Wagg said self-assurance was a necessary attribute for those looking to do well in the competition.
"You can generally tell [the winner] from their first appearance.
"It's confidence. Confidence is the big thing when you are standing up there," he said.
It was also important to feel comfortable talking in front of people and be able to think on your feet.
"We ask them generally half-a-dozen questions to see how they react. When it comes down to judging it, they could sing a song from the Teletubbies, but people don't care about that, they just want to see that [these girls] have some intelligence."
Judges had the final say in choosing a winner, but crowd participation played a large part in the process.
Registrations for the ever-popular bikini contest will be open all day tomorrow, with 30 girls signing up to strut their stuff for the sash last year.
"We are expecting between 20 and 30 this time," More FM's Jessie Howe said.
"The competition itself starts at 2pm."
The More FM Waimarama Beach Day is an annual attraction which began in the early 1990s, and draws 5000 to 6000 people to the popular holiday destination every year.
Entry to the event is free and people are encouraged to pack a picnic and enjoy a host of family appropriate activities throughout the day.
"It's a family day so we just want to see people having fun," Senior Constable Alan Daly said.
"Whether they are driving or enjoying the activities we want everybody to stay safe."
Timetable
9am: Unison Kiwiana Games in the domain.
10am: Tremain's Beach Dig.
10.45am: Jennian Homes Sandcastle Competition.
11.15am: Sandcastle judging.
Noon: Hawke's Bay Refrigeration Dash For Cash.
12.30pm: Surf lifesaving/Lowe rescue helicopter demonstration.
12.45pm: Lunch.
2pm: Wearable Beach Art.
2pm: NFinite Fitness and Health's Miss Waimarama.