“Beauty with a Mission – Empower. Inspire. Create Change.”
DIRECTORS WELCOME
Leizel Laus-Deligero
National Director
As the National Director of Miss New Zealand and Miss Teenager New Zealand under GemVision Productions, my vision is to transform this platform into more than just a beauty pageant — it’s a movement that empowers, inspires, and creates lasting change.
I believe that true beauty shines through confidence, sportsmanship, leadership, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in our communities.
Through the “Beauty with a Mission” philosophy, I am dedicated to redefining what it means to be Miss New Zealand — where beauty meets purpose, and ambition leads to action.
My mission is to:
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Empower Women: Create opportunities for young women to grow in confidence, leadership, and global presence.
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Make a Meaningful Impact: Strengthen Miss New Zealand’s role in supporting charitable causes, youth development, and social initiatives.
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Elevate New Zealand Globally: Prepare our representatives to compete internationally with authenticity, excellence, and purpose.
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Create Sustainable Growth: Build strong partnerships with businesses and organisations to ensure long-term success and influence.
Together, we can inspire change, uplift communities, and shape a future where our representatives are not just titleholders — but role models, leaders, and changemakers.
A B O U T U S
A Proud History
The story of Miss New Zealand dates back nearly a century. The first Miss New Zealand contest was held in Auckland in 1926, open to single women and decided by a public vote. While early editions were irregular, from around 1960 the competition became an annual fixture under more formal organisation.
Over time, the pageant evolved beyond pure beauty to embrace confidence, leadership and community service.
In recent years, our sister competition Miss Teenager New Zealand has emerged as a powerful platform for younger wāhine aged 14–18, giving them a stage to shine, grow, and lead with purpose.
Our Vision & Mission
As the National Director of both Miss New Zealand and Miss Teenager New Zealand through GemVision Productions, I see this platform as much more than a pageant — it's a movement. One that empowers, inspires and creates lasting change.
“Beauty with a Mission”
Through our “Beauty with a Mission” philosophy, we are redefining what it means to be Miss New Zealand — where beauty meets purpose and ambition leads to action. Together, we can inspire change, uplift communities, and shape a future where our title-holders are not just winners of a sash, but role models, leaders and changemakers.
We welcome you to join us — whether as a contestant, a supporter, a partner or a friend — and to explore the many opportunities ahead in the world of pageantry and personal growth. — Leizel Laus-Deligero, National Director
Our 2025 Winner and Finalists
Gem McIver
Professional Career Development
& Mental Health Support
Gem is a business owner, mother, and advocate for mental health and effective communication.
With a professional background in finance and management, she co-founded Casting Link, a talent agency dedicated to creating opportunities for actors and models in New Zealand.
She has studied Accounting, Management, Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and Life Coaching, blending her analytical expertise with a passion for personal growth and human connection.
As a mother of two daughters, Gemma is committed to empowering the next generation to embrace authenticity, resilience, and self-expression.
Living with type 1 diabetes and late-diagnosed neurodivergence, she speaks openly about inclusivity and overcoming challenges.
In her role with Miss New Zealand, Gemma cares deeply about looking after contestants, helping them navigate the wider world with confidence, and ensuring they feel fully supported. She believes in clear communication, setting healthy expectations, and guiding contestants so they can shine both on and off the stage.
Her mission is to champion mental health awareness, foster stronger communication, and inspire others to recognise and celebrate their unique strengths.
OUR TEAM
We are proud to introduce the Miss New Zealand and Miss Teenager New Zealand team for 2026.
Rose Fouger
Franchise Owner
Keith is dedicated to restoring the Miss NZ pageant to its former prestige, with a focus on empowering contestants before, during, and after the competition.
With a career spanning retail sales and management, he has extensive experience overseeing multiple stores and leading diverse teams comprising individuals of different ages, nationalities, and personalities.
Now retired, Keith channels his passion into professional photography, working with top-tier equipment to capture stunning images. Known for his friendly and approachable nature, he thrives on connecting with people.
Happily married with two adult sons, Keith brings both professional expertise and genuine warmth to the Miss NZ committee.
Keith Stewart
Media and Marketing Lead