'NZ Apprentice' hopeful shrugs off US villain comparison

Catherine Livingstone. Photo / Supplied

Apprentice New Zealand hopeful Catherine Livingstone has shrugged off comparisons to the villain of the US version of the show.

The 33-year-old has been likened to Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth, who became known for no-nonsense toughness and comments such as: "I'm going to crush my competition and I'm going to enjoy doing it."

Livingstone, one of six contestants still vying to become entrepreneur Terry Serepisos' second in command, said even her friends said she was the "Omarosa of the New Zealand show".

But she said she prided herself on having the "balls" to say what needs to be said.

Livingstone, who runs a concierge business, spoke out after being lambasted by rejected contestant Meena Chhagan.

Chhagan and Rich Henry were fired by Serepisos this week after conspiring to cover up a behind-the-scenes bust-up between Chhagan and Livingstone.

Chhagan told a women's magazine she stayed calm to protect Livingstone's reputation, despite being sworn at.

Livingstone conceded she may have "said the 'f' word a couple of times" but denied overstepping professional lines.

"She got very heated and very upset and attacked me personally basically, and said I was never going to be good in business - at which time I decided to leave the room.

"I think I was the professional one by leaving the room when she got personal, before saying something I'd regret. The whole thing felt like a schoolyard-type scenario. I'm disappointed she hasn't told the truth."

Chhagan stuck by her story but said it was never intended to be a personal attack. She was glad to have met Livingstone and learned a lot from her.

"I don't believe that the way that Catherine is being portrayed on the show is a correct reflection of the person and business person she is.

"She is a very strong-willed person and I did learn a few things from her which have hardened me up from the old softy I used to be."

* The Apprentice screens on TV2 at 7.30pm on Tuesday.