Organisers of the Miss IndiaNZ 2009 have extended the entry deadline for this year’s pageant to allow more contestants to enter.
Dharmesh Parikh, of Rhythm House, said so far 20 contestants had entered the race in the popular annual pageant which will be held on August 29 at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre.
Parikh said 25 contestants had entered the pageant last year and they hoped to get a similar number this time around.
He said although the close of entries was the end of May, those keen to enter still had time.
As in the past seven pageants, well known international model and actor Colin Mathura-Jeffree, will help train the contestants and is one of the judges.
Mathura-Jeffree, also pageant director for Miss IndiaNZ 2009, is best known his recent role in New Zealand’s Next Top Model show on TV3.
According to Wikipedia: Colin has been an international fashion model for 15 years all over the world including India, Australia, United Kingdom, China, Singapore. Represented by "62 Models" and is also represented by "ODD Management" in New Zealand. Highlights include catwalking for Versace, racing a steam train in the Bajaj motorcycle commercical, Colin's face launched the male cosmetic line Le male by Jean Paul Gaultier in New Zealand live.
His acting career began as the sword wielding Prince of India in Xena: Warrior Princess.
Miss IndiaNZ 2009, August 29, Mahatma Gandhi Centre. Tickets: $25, $35, from Auckland Indian Sweets and Snacks, Otahuhu and Dominion Rd; Yogiji Foodmart, Mt Roskill; Roop Darshan; Kaysons; and Century Video from August 1.
For more information, Parikh can be contacted on 021 272 7454.