Miss Universe New Zealand 2010

Thirteen contestants vying for the title of Miss Universe New Zealand last night dazzled the crowd with sparkly evening gowns and bright white smiles, while the bikini segment of the show got hearts racing.

Miss Econo Heat Ria Van Dyke was crowned Miss Universe New Zealand in front of a near-sold out audience at Wellington’s Duxton Hotel on June 5.

Miss East Auckland Danijela Unkovich was runner up, while Miss Auckland Caren Freeman was second runner up.

Ria will now fly to Las Vegas for the Miss Universe pageant, competing against girls from 83 other countries, on August 23.

Words by Laura McQuillan