Meet The Contestants

Contestant #1

Briar Kerapa

My name is Briar Kerapa, born and raised in West Auckland, I’m 22 years old and a second year sport and recreation student at AUT!
I am passionate about trying new things and helping others achieve their goals to be better versions of themselves.
I grew up playing lots of different sports & grew to love netball still playing at a premier level, I’m a sucker for being outdoors and a dog lover with a beautiful big Rottweiler!

Contestant #2

Toma Mirchevska

I’m Toma Mirchevska, 18 years old and just finished high school. I’m very motivated to start university with studying Engineering and Commerce, as I enjoy the challenges through these specialty areas. I can’t wait to get back into learning so in the mean time to keep distracted I work as an onboard crew member aboard the viaduct boats. While I’m not working I tend to keep my fitness in, hang out with friends, or enjoy my most valuable sports hockey and football. Generally I follow a tomboy lifestyle however I’m tapping into my true feminine side and have passion for modelling/fashion which brings me great pleasure granted this life changing opportunity participating in Miss Auckland.

Contestant #3

Natalia Fernandes

I left Auckland for 3 years and I still came back. That is the strength and pull family holds on me and this beautiful city we are fortunate to live in. 

I am a South- African, Portuguese immigrant who arrived to this wonderful new home about 7 years ago.

I am a nursing student who’s recently transferred over from Dunedin, so my party girl days are gone but my pageant days are still ahead of me. One thing I wish a lot of humans knew and understood is that you have many days but you only have one life, in other words, be brave and tackle what you want! It’s natural to feel anxious about fighting for yourself, going after something you want or anything else but you have many days and one life, make it count be Brave! 

During the day my favourite things to do are smell my cats head, study or do pole fitness. I love Pole Fitness and recommend everyone should try it. Sexual Harm and Brave are causes and platforms I strongly believe in. I believe every single youth in Aotearoa has an unequivocal right to be protected!

Contestant #4

Courtney Pierce

My name is Courtney Pierce, a 19 year old student at AUT studying a bachelor of communications where I am wanting to pursue a career in PR. I enjoy working with people and strive to be a great communicator in all areas of my life. In my spare time I love to exercise at the gym, play indoor netball, spend time at the beach and socialise with family and friends. I’m looking forward to participating in Miss Auckland this year, getting to meet all the other contestants and see where the journey can take me.

Contestant #5

Mishel Perera

My name is Mishel. I am 23 years old. I am from the hotel industry. I love helping people.
I have graduated from AUT last year with the qualification of International Hospitality Management (Double major : Accommodation & Food and Beverage).
I would describe myself as a goal oriented and hard working person who is always motivated to achieve my goals. I'd love to learn new things all the time. Family comes first in my life as they are my main support system. I would love to spend time with my family and friends. I am well known as a bubbly character among my family and friends.

Contestant #6

Priya Kumar

My name is Priya and I’m 19 years old and currently in my second year of studies in Nutrition at UoA. I love everything beauty & fashion and always love to get involved and try new things. I think it’s important to invest in our communities, because if not now then when? Having the ability to empower our young wahine to be confident in their abilities would be surreal. I can’t wait to see where this new journey may take me and the rest of the girls

Contestant #7

Elizza Lagi

My name is Elizza Lagi, 26 years of age, migrated from Fiji to New Zealand at the age of 10.
West Auckland became my new home. Moved to Hamilton -Waikato to gain some independence at the age of 18 and recently moved back to Auckland to be around family.
Working and studying part time.
Independence has taught me a lot, I win and lose some but never give up.

Contestant #8

Charlotte Meiklejohn

I’m Charlotte! I am 23 years old and I am currently working in my dream job as an International Flight Attendant! Family and friends are a huge part of my life and I am grateful for them for helping me get where I am today in all aspects of life!
Travel is a huge part in my life and being able to have the opportunity to travel all over the world as my job is just wow! Meeting and working with so many new faces everyday is truly amazing! Pageants have a special place in my heart, when I first competed in a pageant I didn’t know what to expect but I walked out of there with sisters for life and this new found confidence!

Contestant #9

Samantha Poole

I’m Samantha! I am 20 years old and I work as a Model and Content Creator while studying for my Bachelor of Digital Design, majoring in Visual Effects at Auckland’s University of Technology. My aspiration is to be at the forefront of women in technology and to inspire young girls to believe that there are no limits, we can do it all.
My mum, little brother and I immigrated to this country when I was younger. New Zealand welcomed us with open arms and has become our home ever since.
I will forever acknowledge my gratitude to this beautiful country and do my best to pay it forward to others who need support. I have definitely had to work my way up in every aspect of life but I now know what dedication, hard work and confidence can get you in life.

Contestant #10

Tyla Stone

My name is Tyla and I’m originally from West Auckland. I am now currently living in Hamilton and decided to make the move when I was lucky enough to get a scholarship from the University of Waikato. I completed my degree in sport science and psychology last year and am now currently studying towards my Master’s in sport psychology.
In the middle of this year, I got a part-time job as duty manager at the Hamilton Pools. In the past few months that I have been there, my leadership skills have grown immensely and I am so lucky to have such great support from my colleagues in this role.
I am always looking for a challenge and to better myself through different opportunities that are presented to me.

Contestant #11

Britney Pringle

My name is Britney, and I am based on the North Shore of Auckland.
You'll generally find me outdoors, whether I'm going to the beach, hiking or paddleboarding along our beautiful coastline. I have a big love for our whenua and spend most days gardening and harvesting home-grown kai.
I am a Technology Change, Adoption and Communication Lead. I have worked with some of the biggest names in the technology world, helping them transition into modern ways of working.