More Poised “Miss N.Z.”

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31923, 26 February 1969, Page 2

More Poised “Miss N.Z.”

Learning to work things out for herself is one of the many things being “Miss New Zealand” is teaching 19-year-old Miss Christine Antunovic.

Although she considers she has not changed basically Miss Antunovic has gained poise, composure and confidence. She has also discovered a very independent streak which she would like to put to use in the future. When she won the title Miss Antunovic had just left school and was considering going nuring. “Now 1 couldn’t settle to three years’ swot, although I think nursing is a fine career for a girl. I’d like a job where I’m more or less my own boss—something in public relations, perhaps. “When I was overseas I really enjoyed selling New Zealand so it would be good to do something like that,” she said. "If a good modelling job was offering I’d also like that.” Modelling Tour Miss Antunovic is in Christchurch during a three-month modelling tour through the country. She is accompanied by Mrs Nola Kelliher, who is co-ordinator and compere of the parades. “Since I’ve been ‘Miss New Zealand’ I’ve learnt a lot about life and people. Now I find people much more interesting. When you have to meet a lot and talk to them you realise how very different each one is,” she said.

Travelling overseas had been a wonderful experience,

but it has not sparked off the desire to leave New Zealand permanently. A family girl, Miss Antunovic missed her parents, looked forward to letters from her two younger brothers, and at times was homesick. “Being away from home has made me realise how: much I owe my parents. L could not have done it without them—you have to have your parents behind to make a success of this contest,” she; said. Some Restraint The attitude of her family j and close friends to her re-! mained the same but with more casual acquaintances there was some restraint. “They have become very shy. I can tell when I meet them they are wondering if I’ve changed. But when they see I’m still the same they relax,” she said. Sport was one of her chief interests when she was at school, and she still likes a game of golf, squash, tennis and table tennis. When she has time she likes to cook. Miss Antunovic reveals a keen fashion sense, choosing stylish feminine clothes which compliment her neat figure and clear-cut features. Her wide, brown eyes are her most striking feature. The photograph shows Miss Antunovic holding the attractive wool ball gown she wore during beauty contests overseas.