Miss Rotorua 2018 showcases glamour and talent

There was an abundance of glamour and talent as contestants' training came into fruition at the Miss Rotorua 2018 coronation night.

The contestants took part in a talent section and a question and answer session, as well as showing off their beautiful evening gowns.

There was also an interview with the judges and charity work prior to the coronation night.

Contestant Nicole Agnew was crowned Miss Rotorua 2018.

Contestant Nicole Agnew was crowned Miss Rotorua 2018. Photo / Amber Wolfgram

Azrael Hansen was crowned Miss Teen, Stallone Edmonds-Tepania Mrs Rotorua, and Tia Chadwick Miss Te Arawa.

The event was held on Saturday night at the Blue Baths.

Nicole Agnew said she took part to gain more confidence.

She said she wanted to get out of her comfort zone and push away her anxiety.

Agnew said she was shocked when her name was called out.

Azrael Hansen was crowned Miss Teen. Photo / Amber Wolfgram

"I was amazed. There were so many different feelings. I was so overwhelmed and I cried because I was so happy. It was an amazing feeling."

She said she found the sections during coronation great because she went to all of the trainings and practised a lot at home, so she felt prepared and confident.

Making friends along the way had been a main highlight for her throughout her Miss Rotorua journey.

"I moved to Rotorua in 2017 so didn't have that many friends. I've gained a lot of connections with so many different people."

Tia Chadwick was crowned Miss Te Arawa. Photo / Amber Wolfgram

Agnew said she was studying at the New Zealand School of Tourism and would love to work towards other pageants such as Miss Universe or Miss World NZ.

She will now go on to the Miss Universe NZ nationals next year.

"Anyone should join a pageant. It's not just about beauty, it's having fun and stepping out of your comfort zone."

Organiser Kharl WiRepa said the coronation night was "absolutely fabulous" and was a full house.

"Once again it was the most glamorous event in our region.

Contestant Nicole Agnew was crowned Miss Rotorua 2018. Photo / Miss Rotorua

"It was wonderful to see the talent of our girls and their development from before to now.

"I'm very proud of each one of them. They all did a great job and congratulations to our winners."

WiRepa said $26,000 was raised for this year's charities - New Zealand Cat Foundation, The Movement Rotorua, Salvation Army Rotorua, Māori Wardens and Special Olympics.