Georgia Waddington Crowned Miss Universe New Zealand | Christchurch News

Georgia Waddington just crowned Miss Universe New Zealand 2026, beating 16 rivals in Auckland and set to represent Aotearoa at the 75th Miss Universe in Puerto Rico this November. A first-time pageant queen in 2023, she’s already made global waves—winning Miss Photogenic at Miss International Japan and Best Face at Miss Charm Vietnam. She’s also a passionate advocate for charity, supporting Brave Charitable Trust and Pink Ribbon New Zealand. Waddington debunks the cutthroat myth, sharing laughs with rivals—even over rugby—and says her pageant journey has unlocked new possibilities and built confidence for whatever’s next. She’s stepping into the crown from Abbigail Sturgin, continuing a legacy that traces back to 1962 and includes legend Lorraine Downes, who won Miss Universe in 1983. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4cec1a6baa9cac46