Georgia Waddington, Miss New Zealand

Recently crowned Miss New Zealand, Georgia Waddington, talks to deputy editor Daniella Judge about her career, and what pageantry is really like in Aotearoa.

When many people think of beauty pageants, their minds tend to think of the Americanised portrayals and stereotypes. Movies such as Miss Congeniality, and the broader controversies surrounding child beauty pageants, including the depiction of controlling pageant mothers, have portrayed negative slants.

Georgia Waddington tells a different story. She says that her experience with New Zealand pageantry is leaps and bounds away from what we see on the Hollywood screens. “Miss New Zealand breaks away from traditional stereotypes. The focus is on sisterhood, empowerment, and charity work, pageants are a fulfilling experience that can help young women grow into the best version of themselves, not just external beauty.”

The path that led Georgia to Miss New Zealand began when she was a toddler, and joined a modelling agency, enjoying a successful career in the industry since then.

Late last year the Miss New Zealand Pageant organisers were seeking contestants, and invited her to apply.
“This was my first-ever pageant experience,” she comments.

The finale of the pageant, where Georgia was crowned Miss New Zealand, is just the last step of a whole transformative journey for the participants, that many of us may have no idea about. Georgia explains how during the six-month lead-in to the pageant there a big focus on personal development, and fitness.

Activities included: Women’s Leadership Conferences, and the Presenter’s Platform, which emphasised the development of communication and public speaking skills, and a Fitness day. Georgia says she also participated in head-to-head debates, a development panel, and underwent rigorous training in a pageant boot camp.

“From being the girl in school who was hesitant to give a speech or put my hand up first, I have come a long way,” Georgia reveals. Sustainability and environmental action held significant importance, as did fostering cultural awareness. As part of the latter, Georgia and her fellow participants stayed on a marae, immersing themselves in Māori traditions, and gaining insights into Te reo Māori.

“It’s a full-time commitment, and while I was comfortable wearing heels in my daily life, I quickly realised that the challenge went beyond simply walking! With hours of practice, determination, and a lot of help from the coaches – I got where I am today.” The charity aspect of the pageant was a highlight for Georgia, and she chose to support two causes that are meaningful to her: I Am Hope and Brave NZ.

Georgia organised and hosted an I Am Hope charity fundraiser to champion mental health awareness. The event featured guest speaker Mike King, I Am Hope founder, and was emceed by Mike Pero. The fundraiser was a resounding success, raising almost $6400 through ticket sales and a silent auction.

Brave NZ focuses on raising awareness about sexual harm, consent, healthy relationships, and online safety. Georgia took the lead in organising and conducting school visits across New Zealand alongside the founder of Brave NZ. These visits provided her with invaluable opportunities to engage directly with numerous students, imparting crucial knowledge on these vital topics to thousands of young minds.

“I would wholeheartedly encourage young women who are interested in pursuing modelling or pageantry to go for it. It can be an incredible journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and empowerment. It offers opportunities to build confidence, develop valuable skills, and make lasting connections. Embrace your uniqueness, believe in yourself, and follow your dreams. You never know where this path may lead you.”

Looking ahead, Georgia has set her sights on representing New Zealand at the highly anticipated Miss International 2023 pageant in Japan. The prospect of showcasing her country on a global platform fills her with excitement, as she aims to inspire positive change for a brighter future. Her chosen United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for the international pageant is focused on promoting good health and well-being.
To achieve this goal, Georgia has a multifaceted approach.

She intends to create an engaging e-book that emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet. Additionally, she plans to initiate a morning routine challenge, encouraging others to prioritise their well-being from the start of their day.

As part of her efforts, she will also have the privilege of interviewing a blind Paralympic record holder from New Zealand.

Eager to embark on this journey, Georgia expresses her enthusiasm. Her commitment doesn’t end there. She remains dedicated to her ambassadorial work for I Am Hope and Brave NZ. Stay updated with Georgia’s endeavours and be a part of her story by following her on Instagram.

Image: Dolce Wedding Photography. Makeup: Melanie Anderson Hair & Makeup. Dress: Brides of Merivale.

The Miss New Zealand beauty pageant experience:
– Not just one day or one week, but spans over 6 months.
– Personal development activities include Women’s Leadership Conferences, a Presenter’s Platform, a Fitness day, head-to-head debates, a development panel, and rigorous training in a pageant boot camp.
– Charity work is central to the pageant.
– Pre-judging day includes: talent showcase, interview
sessions, charity presentations, national costume display,
evening wear evaluation, and a swimwear presentation.