Miss Universe NZ stripped of title

The South African-born Miss Universe New Zealand winner has been stripped of her tiara after failing to gain citizenship to her adopted country on time.

Avianca Bohm, 22, was crowned in June but her title was thrown into immediate doubt when it was revealed had won despite the head judge knowing she was ineligible to win because she was not a New Zealand citizen.

The organisation gave Ms Bohm until this week to get the paperwork sorted but it was reported on Tuesday that her bid had failed.

The title has since been handed over to 2012 runner-up Talia Bennett.

Ms Bennett told ZeishaPR.com that it was a "wonderful honour" to finally wear the crown.

"It has been sad and unfortunate how events have unfolded and I am truly humbled in accepting my selection," the 23-year-old Auckland commercial property valuer said.

"I am looking forward with excitement to the once in a lifetime opportunity I have been given to represent my country on the world stage."

Miss Universe 2012 will be held in December at a yet-to-be-decided venue.

New Zealand pageant organiser Val Lott earlier told AAP that both the judges and Ms Bohm knew she could not win the pageant because she was not a New Zealand citizen.

She was only allowed to enter so she could practise being in a pageant.

Photo: NZ Herald