Larissa Allen third in Miss Universe NZ

File photo/George Novak

Larissa Allen placed third in the Miss Universe New Zealand competition.

Ms Allen has traded her formal formal gown, sash and tiara for work clothes and is back to work this week.

Ms Allen, who was on the catwalk on Saturday night, said she celebrated her top placing with chips and a burger.

"I still had my sash and tiara on. One of my friends thanked me for keeping it real," she said.

Miss Allen said she would be at the Rotorua Tulip Festival in October where more than 100,000 tulips will be blooming.

She would officially close the festival. For more on the festival, head to www.tulipfestrotorua.co.nz.