Miss Universe New Zealand mistaken for Netherlands in costume gaffe

Harlem-Cruz Atarangi Ihaia's national costume featured black feathers said to represent "the misperceptions that shadow her indigenous people." Photo / Supplied

Miss Universe has kicked off in Las Vegas today and the national costume section has already presented an awkward commentary gaffe involving New Zealand's Harlem-Cruz Atarangi Ihaia.

While the swimsuit section went off without a hitch, as the 19-year-old from Napier paraded as The Goddess of Fire for her national costume, MC Nia Sanchez quipped: "With a strong desire to be The Goddess of Fire, it's Netherland... New Zealand!"

Shanchez, who was Miss USA and 1st Runner up Miss Universe in 2014, can be heard giggling as she corrects herself.

The camera catches a subtle smirk from Ihaia as she poses at the end of the runway, turns and makes her exit to quiet applause.

Harlem-Cruz Atarangi Ihaia was crowned Miss Universe New Zealand in Auckland in August. Photo / Supplied

Ihaia, a kohanga reo teacher and the first New Zealand contestant to wear tā moko, is one of 92 internationals contending for the Miss Universe 2017 title. Preliminary components of the competition have kicked off at The AXIS at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

Ihaia, who has spent the last couple of weeks in auditions, photoshoots and touring Las Vegas spoke to the Hawkes Bay Today about some of the highlights so far:

"I was privileged to attend the Celine Dion concert and also the Donny and Marie Osmond Show," she said.

Ahead of the competition Ihaia was reportedly in good spirits and said while she was hopeful of a win, whatever the outcome she was confident she'd done her best.

"It would mean everything to me to win. I have done my best in interviews, modelling the evening gown and bikini at the preliminary competition, so it's just a waiting game now.

"I'm satisfied with my efforts and how I have represented my country.

"I think all 92 women have a chance as we are all confidently beautiful women who have a passion to make a difference."

Ihaia previously told Hawkes Bay Today the main reason she entered the contest was to inspire females in her family and other young Maori women.

"We can do more than that, I think this will give them the inspiration to do anything they want."