Hauraki pupil is Miss Teen New Zealand runner-up

Thames-born Tyler Handcock was announced Miss Teen New Zealand runner-up in Papakura’s Hawkins Theatre recently.

The 15-year-old, who is signed with KHM modelling agency, took out the eveningwear category along with her second placing.

“As soon as it was announced I really couldn’t believe it, the amount of talent that was there that night, I wasn’t confident at all. But I knew I had done my best.”

The Hauraki Plains College student began preparation for the pageant several months ago with numerous shopping sprees, sponsorship sourcing, costume creation, fitness training,  and interview preparation.

After placing third in the Miss Teen Franklin competition, Tyler wanted more of the pageant experience.

“Being 6ft it’s pretty hard to avoid modelling… I saw a few photos of girls in New Zealand pageants on Facebook and decided to look into it.”

The entrants were judged on the following categories: Miss Photogenic, Interview, Day Wear, National Costume, Swim Wear, Evening Wear, and Charity.

Around 20 other girls competed for the top spot with Auckland’s Aleisha Robertson taking out the title.

The judges for the event were well-known fashion designers Judy Board and Louis Thomsen, who have won numerous awards for their creations.

Miss Handcock began modelling when she was younger but gave it up to accommodate her sporting commitments.

Her return to modelling has left her grateful for all the support that lead to her second placing.

“I’d really like to thank my sponsors Pauanui Takeaways and Bella Vi Mineral Make up.

Also my parents Lisa and Ian for always supporting me, encouraging me and making opportunities like this achievable.”