Kalo Funganitao (23) was crowned Miss Heilala 2018 early this morning Saturday July 7, at the Miss Heilala Ball held at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall. 

The university student who entered the pageant as Miss Appraxus Tonga New Zealand shed tears of joy and said she could not believe this was happening to her. "I am just really happy."

During the week's judging events Kalo was placed first in four of the five judging categories, including pre-interview, talent, sarong wear and island creation.

She lives in Auckland and is currently studying for her Bachelor of Arts .and Bachelor of Laws (BA/LLB) at the University of Auckland.

The new Miss Heilala was crowned by Miss Heilala 2017 Ophelia Kava with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Hon. Semisi Sika.

The first runner-up was Miss Villa Ishadora, Mele Lupe Vete.

The second runner up was Miss S&S USA Store 'Ailini Vakalahi.

The ball, which concluded this year's pageant, attracted a full house to see the 15 contestants beautifully dressed in their evening gowns.

The Miss Heilala won a $5,000 cash prize, a return ticket for two to San Francisco and other prizes.