Different beat for policewoman

A Northland policewoman traded her traditional blue uniform for a blue bikini during the Miss Mount competition in the Bay of Plenty.

Sarah Halvorson, who works from the central Whangarei station was second in Tuesday's Miss Mount competition, hosted by ZM's Morgan Croasdale on the iHeartRadio stage on Mount Maunganui Main Beach.

The 20-year-old said she had entered for a shot at the prize money and for fun. "I'm a cop so I thought it was funny just to go out there in the first place."

She was beaten by winner Ceri McVinnie who only entered because she wanted a sash to match her boyfriend's.

Miss McVinnie, 22, was awarded the crown and joined her boyfriend Christiaan de Beer, 22, who was the second place winner at the Mr Mount competition held earlier in the day.

"I'm completely shocked. At first I was the only competitor so I thought I was going to win by default, then other girls entered. They are all so gorgeous, it was an awesome start to the New Year."

Mr De Beer, from Hamilton, said he was proud of his girlfriend.

Third was Talitha Barton from Te Puke, who said she had entered for a confidence boost.