"OVERWHELMING, completely overwhelming," was all an emotional Michelle Kleinsmith, 19, could say at first after being crowned Miss Wanganui at the Miss Universe New Zealand Wanganui pageant last night.
Sponsored by the Kingsgate Hotel, Miss Kleinsmith won the title over 13 other young women at the packed Wanganui pageant.
The Wanganui District
Council secretary repeatedly wiped away her tears backstage, as some of her fellow contestants embraced her to congratulate her on her win. When asked what the crown meant to her, the tears welled up again.
"[It means] a heck of a lot. I'm just stunned, I have no words at the moment," she said.
Contemplating the year ahead, Miss Kleinsmith said her predecessor, Amanda Hiroti, had very big shoes to fill.
"I'm hopeful I can do it," she said. The first runner up at the pageant was Amber-Rose Edwardson, 20, who would take over Miss Kleinsmith's duties as Miss Wanganui if she is unable to perform them.
Second runner-up was Kathleen Bartlett, 19; Miss Personality was won by Anna Toohey, 18; and the People's Choice was Alischa Murphy, 20. The Wanganui Chronicle's Lily Toyne, 17, was named Charity Queen, for raising the most money on a single bid at the charity auction.
