A 23-year-old media studies and drama teacher from Auckland has been crowned Miss Universe New Zealand.
Tania Dawson triumphed over 19 other finalists at a gala evening at Sky City Theatre in Auckland last night.
The Miss Universe New Zealand finalists (Twitter / @movenpickcebu)
Dawson was so overcome with emotion following her win that she had to take a moment backstage before facing the media.
In a post on Facebook, Dawson said being overwhelmed by winning the title was an understatement.
"I am ecstatic!" she wrote. "I am so proud and excited to start my next journey."
She'll represent New Zealand at the international final in the Philippines in January 2016.
Newshub.