An east Auckland beauty queen is soaking up her latest success after competing as a finalist in this year’s Miss Auckland pageant.
Aimee Dalton, 21, from Howick, was named fourth runner-up and Miss Photogenic at the pageant won by Inge Carolus and staged in conjunction with Miss New Zealand at the Bruce Mason Centre on the North Shore on May 5.
Her previous accolades include competing in Miss Universe International NZ 2023/2024, being a Miss Super Model NZ finalist 2023, a Miss Face of Beauty finalist 2023, and a Miss New Zealand Finalist 2022.
Despite living with medical conditions including 50 per cent hearing loss, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), she’s a successful hairdresser, model, television extra, singer and student pursuing a master’s in hairdressing.
She says her journey is fuelled by passions such as singing, dancing, and supporting charitable causes.
Dalton supports charities including Saving Hope, which rescues and rehabilitates dogs, and Endometriosis Warriors Aotearoa, which helps women batting chronic disease.
Her recent efforts saw her raise more than $2000 for various worthy causes.
“At Miss Auckland I championed causes like Brave, a sexual harm awareness charity, and mental health, organising events like Cocktails for Charity and ‘hair masterclasses’ to raise funds and awareness.
“I recently collaborated with other Miss Auckland finalists for the Kai for Souls event, providing meals and support to the homeless.
“I’m committed to community welfare and sustainability.”
Dalton’s personal story shines as an example of overcoming challenges and making a positive impact on others, embodying hope, resilience and altruism.
She says her main objective for this year’s Miss Auckland wasn’t focused on achieving a specific ranking.
“I participated with a broader mission in mind; to inspire confidence, especially among young girls, regardless of their size.
“My focus was on embodying empowerment and demonstrating that overcoming chronic illnesses can make one stronger and more determined.
“Additionally, I’ve rescued and surrendered four puppies to Saving Hope, a charity that holds a very special place in my heart.”
She says being named the pageant’s fourth runner-up and Miss Photogenic was “an incredible honour”.
“It was a validation of my efforts and dedication throughout the pageant.
“Being recognised as Miss Photogenic was particularly meaningful, as it highlighted not only my appearance but also my ability to express myself confidently and authentically.
“These achievements filled me with gratitude and a sense of accomplishment, knowing my hard work had been acknowledged and appreciated.”
Miss Auckland pageant director Meghan Kenney says the competition saw 11 young women battle it out for the crown.
“Miss Auckland has several international titles available such as Miss Global City, Miss Multinational, and Miss Tourism World, so while our winner is 100 per cent going overseas, the rest of the top three likely will be too.
“In Aimee’s case, as fourth runner-up she received her sash and crown, along with a dried flower bouquet and Thin Lizzy beauty box as well as a coaching and photography package with The Pageant Store and partially sponsored entry into Miss New Zealand, or Miss Auckland if she wants to do that one again instead, next year.”
“The contestants raised over $40,000 for I Am Hope so it’s absolutely something worth celebrating.”
