Beauty and charm

Some of the country's most beautiful women donned bright smiles and designer gowns as they vied to be crowned Miss Universe New Zealand last night.

The top 16 contestants from around the country flaunted their tans and stilettos at Wellington's Duxton Hotel where last year's winner, Katie Taylor, from Auckland, handed over her crown.

The winner goes on to compete for the international Miss Universe pageant title, held between May and July.

The Miss Universe competition is worldwide and produced by tycoon Donald Trump.

The New Zealand heat was relaunched in 2006, after a five-year hiatus.