Catwalk catfights begin in Next Top Model

Nellie Jenkins has already signed with an agency and so too has her twin Elza. Photo / Babiche Martens

The second season of New Zealand's Next Top Model has disappointed young hopefuls by allowing girls already signed with modelling agencies to enter the competition.

At least four of the top 13 finalists are already signed with an agency and have participated in numerous catwalk events and campaigns, despite rules which state contestants must not have modelled in a "national campaign in the last five years".

The application forms for the show also state any models must be able to terminate existing agency contracts.

Dunedin twins Elza and Nellie Jenkins, 17, are signed with Ali McD models and have made it into the top 13 finalists.

Agency director Aliana McDaniel said four of her girls had made it through to the final group, and she was not concerned that their participation meant they would switch to sign with 62 Models & Talent, owned by Top Model host Sara Tetro.

But New Zealand's Next Top Model Producer Anna Lynch said she was "perfectly happy" at some contestants having more experience than others.

"If you are tall and thin in New Zealand, chances are you will have been asked to walk in a show."

History does repeat

History will repeat during this season of NZNTM.

Three years ago, 18-year-old Californian twins Amanda and Michelle Babin entertained viewers on the American show.

And now Kiwis will watch Dunedin twins Elza and Nellie Jenkins, 17, who have been signed to New Zealand's version.

"The sibling dynamic is a relationship most people can relate to," said Amanda, speaking last night from California.

"I wish them nothing but the best of luck - they have my vote."