Makikihi School pupil Tapaita Fonokalafi has been named as a finalist in the Little Miss Aotearoa contest.
Ten-year-old Tapaita is one of five finalists in her age category so far.
Mother Kasanita Fonongaloa said Tapaita was thrilled and excited to become a finalist, because now she will make new friends.
It is the first year the pageant will take place.
Event founder Kogi So was named Miss Rotorua in 2021, and went on to be named Mrs Universe in 2022 in Bulgaria (while representing New Zealand).
She was also named Mrs Universe Generosity at the same pageant.
Mrs So said her experience really made her want to help younger girls to find their confidence, which was how the idea for Little Miss Aotearoa came about.
The event will take place on April 21 at the Papa Hou Theatre in Christchurch.
Ms Fonongaloa said Tapaita was inspired to enter Little Miss Aotearoa after learning about the contest’s objectives.
The pageant revolves around the belief true beauty came from within, and aims to build up selfconfidence in the young contestants.
Participants are encouraged to keep everything natural-looking, which lets their facial beauty and personality shine.
Winners of each category receive a $500 cash prize, a certificate, rhinestone crown, sashes and an invitation to represent New Zealand to compete at the international pageant.
Ms Fonongaloa said the objectives of the pageant were nurturing self-confidence, inspiring young girls to embrace their individual qualities, promoting community involvement and environmental awareness.
‘‘We have always encouraged [Tapaita] to explore new opportunities and do something different, so we knew she would be interested,’’ Ms Fonongaloa said.
‘‘As active members of our community, we appreciate the pageant’s emphasis on community engagement, as it aligns with our values to instil empathy and social responsibility in our children and foster a deep connection to the world around them.’’
The family is also taking advantage of the event’s proximity, as it is taking place in Christchurch, there will be less travel and lower accommodation costs.
‘‘As her parents, we are proud of what she has done. We encourage her to do various activities, believing that giving things a try is valuable to see if she enjoys them or not,’’ Ms Fonongaloa said.
‘‘There are many opportunities and activities out there for our children to get involved in, but societal norms, perceptions, costs, or the demands of life may sometimes hinder us from allowing our children to participate in such events.
‘‘As long as we know that she is having fun and enjoying it, [it] is all that matters, as there is no point getting her to do something she does not like. ’’
Tapaita’s favourite subjects are music, art, physical education, and science.
‘‘She has a new favourite sport now, which is tennis, but rugby is still up there as we try to get her to do other sports as well.’’
