Miss Otago calls Masterton home

GREAT EXPERIENCE: Becky Hingston in a publicity photo for Miss Otago.

Miss Otago is also very definitely Miss Masterton.

Becky Hingston, 24, is one of 25 finalists in the Miss Universe New Zealand competition on September 18 at Sky City in Auckland.

Ms Hingston, who was a boarder at Solway College, got caught up in the beauty pageant concept when she was studying marine biology and zoology at Otago University.

She has now moved back to Masterton with her boyfriend.

"This is the only place I call home," she said.

Miss Hingston was crowned Miss Otago in May, telling the Otago Daily Times she had started out as a "tomboy" and ended up a fashion queen - a reference to being a first-time model and her indifference to make-up.

She is seeking Wairarapa's help in achieving the crown, as 50 per cent of her final score comes from public votes.

"I'm hoping to get Masterton behind me with text voting," she said.

She got involved in the beauty pageant down south because friends of hers had done it and told her it was an "amazing" experience.

"I thought I may as well give it a go."

She had never had a photoshoot in her life before that, and was not familiar with the amount of make-up needed.

A home renovator by profession, Ms Hingston said it was a big change from paint-splattered overalls to "sparkly ball gowns and heels".

But for a lot of the women, it was their first time as well, she said.

She said the most nerve-wracking thing about the process was walking in heels and being worried about falling.

But one of the best things was the bonding with the other finalists, who got to go on a retreat to Thailand.

She said it has increased her self-confidence, while the trip to Asia has made her appreciate how lucky people are in New Zealand.

The winner of Miss Universe New Zealand will represent New Zealand at the Miss Universe pageant.

To vote, text BECKY3557 or go to iticket.co.nz/events/2014/sep/becky-hingston