Miss Papua New Guinea Leoshina Mercy Karia is the new Miss Pacific Islands.
She was crowned at Atele Stadium in Nukualofa, Tonga last night by our very own Matauaina Gwendolyn Toomalatai, who ended her reign as the region’s ambassador last night.
At 18, Miss PNG was the youngest of the six young women who competed at the annual regional pageant.
Leoshina who is from the troubled region of PNG, Bougainville, has just completed her first year of PNG studies at the Divine Word University in Madang, Papua New Guinea. 
She also won Best Interview, Best Talent, Miss Tourism and Miss Personality.
The first runner up was Miss Cook Islands-Lydia Simonis Tariu, who was also Miss Photogenic and Mioss Internet.
Second runner up was Miss Samoa-Sonia Piva, who also won the best traditionally inspired wear and sarong. competition.
And the 3rd runner up was Miss Tuvalu, Emelipelesa Panapa.
Consolation prizes were awarded to Miss American Samoa Magalita Johnson and Miss Tonga Kalolaine Funganitao.
Photos: Miss Pacific Islands FB page
