"When they read my name out I was like, 'oh my gosh, this is real.' I had to go up on stage and I was nervous because I don't really like crowds, but it was exciting at the same time.
"I made it to the regionals last year, I wasn't going to enter this year but a week before applications closed I thought I'd give it a go.
"It was my last year so I thought I may as well."
She said she hoped the award would look good on her CV - although she wasn't planning to leave Rotorua any time soon.
"Being one of only seven regional winners in New Zealand has to look good on your CV. I will probably use it as a bit of an advertisement and hopefully it will help me build up my clientele."
When she first left school, Ms Goldsmith had trained to be a chef before becoming interested in hair and makeup.
"A few years ago I got interested in hair and makeup. My tutor wanted us to learn a bit about hairdressing and afterwards she told me I should carry on with it. A year or so later I decided I was interested in it so I gave up cheffing and decided I would give hairdressing a go. I've really enjoyed it, I wish I had given it a go sooner."
Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation Midlands sales liaison manager Lynette Chapman said Ms Goldsmith was very focused and self motivated.
"She has completed all of her tasks to a high standard and her hairdressing is progressing very well. Alannah is a dedicated professional in her work approach."
Alannah's top five hair care tips:
Get regular trims
Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner
Have a good conditioning treatment once a week or fortnight
Use the appropriate products for your hair type
Make sure you're careful when using heated appliances (straighteners, dryers) and use thermal protection products