Miss New Zealand Pageant Faces Allegations of Racism and Bullying

Allegations of racism, bullying, and competition-rigging have emerged against the Miss New Zealand beauty pageant, with several former participants voicing their concerns. The claims, made by three former beauty queens, highlight serious issues related to body image and treatment within the competition. The franchise holder has denied these accusations, asserting that the pageant promotes resilience and determination.

Among those speaking out is Moya van Kooten, a 23-year-old finalist in the upcoming Miss New Zealand 2024. Van Kooten described her experience as “six months of hell,” noting that she initially entered the pageant for personal growth and networking. Instead, she faced immense pressure to conform to specific standards, which she claims negatively impacted her health.

Van Kooten recounted challenging events during her time in the competition, including being pushed to undertake extreme activities such as swimming in freezing waters and bungee jumping off the Harbour Bridge. She reported feeling severely underweight and developing hypothermia as a result. “I nearly fainted,” van Kooten stated, underscoring the physical and emotional toll the pageant took on her.

The allegations extend beyond individual experiences. Former contestants have accused the pageant organizers of fostering a culture of fat-shaming and racism. Van Kooten highlighted the conflicting messages she received about body image, stating, “I was a size 4 and told that was perfect,” yet felt constant pressure to maintain her weight and generate revenue for the event.

In response to these allegations, the pageant’s franchise holder has firmly rejected the claims. They argue that the competition is about showcasing strength and resilience, emphasizing that participants must exhibit tenacity to succeed. The organizers maintain that the pageant is focused on empowering women rather than promoting harmful practices.

The accusations against the Miss New Zealand pageant have sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of contestants in beauty competitions. Many are calling for increased accountability and transparency within such organizations to ensure that participants are treated with respect and dignity.

As this situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Miss New Zealand pageant will address these serious allegations. The impact of these claims not only affects the individuals involved but also raises questions about the standards and practices in beauty pageants globally. The spotlight is now on the organizers to clarify their position and implement changes that promote a healthier and more inclusive environment for all contestants.