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'Fun challenge': Shy Northlander excels in bikini competitions

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 19:35 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
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Northlander Chloe Mackay Makes Waves in Bikini Competition Circuit

Chloe Mackay – a rising star from New Zealand’s Northland – is turning heads in the world of bikini contests, combining a fierce athletic background with a radiant personality that has earned her a top‑three finish at the recent New Zealand Bikini Championships. The Northern Advocate’s “On the Up” feature gives readers an inside look at how a local teen is breaking out of the shadows to claim a bright future in the highly competitive bikini arena.

From Pool to Stage

Mackay’s journey began in the pool. Growing up in Whangarei, she was a dominant force on the local swim team, clocking some of the fastest 100‑m freestyle times for her age group. “I’ve always loved the water,” she says, “but as I got older I started to feel that I could bring a different kind of energy to the stage.” After finishing a year of high school, Chloe joined a local fitness program that introduced her to the world of bikini competitions. The transition from swimming to a runway‑style event was not a jump, she says – “It’s more about maintaining that same level of discipline and pushing yourself to be the best you can be.”

Her first appearance on the national stage came at the 2023 “Island Bikini Challenge,” where she was announced a semi‑finalist. That experience convinced her to commit full‑time to the sport. “The support from my family and my coach was huge,” she says. “They saw it not just as a fashion event, but as a showcase of fitness, confidence and community.”

The 2024 New Zealand Bikini Championships

The 2024 championships, held in Auckland last week, featured a field of 36 contestants from across the country. Mackay’s performance was a masterclass in poise and strength. In the “Professional Bikini” category, she was judged on physical conditioning, stage presence, and overall charisma. The judges were unanimous: Chloe ranked third overall, behind seasoned competitor Emily Wright of Wellington and newcomer Lily Tait of Christchurch. The top prize – a contract with a national fitness apparel brand and a trip to the upcoming World Bikini Championships in Bali – was taken by Wright, but Mackay’s achievement is still a source of pride for her community.

In an interview with the Northern Advocate, Mackay said, “I’m so grateful for the platform and the confidence I’ve gained. It’s not just about the prizes; it’s about the people I’ve met and the messages I can share.” She credits her coach, former national swimmer Alex Robinson, with helping her develop a rigorous training schedule that blends weight training, cardio, and dance classes.

A Model of Community and Charity

Beyond the glitz of the stage, Mackay is deeply invested in giving back. During the championships, she and a group of contestants held a charity “Fit‑for‑Life” event, where participants paid a fee to try out workout sessions led by the competitors. The proceeds were donated to the Whangarei Women’s Shelter, which offers support to victims of domestic violence. “Using our platform to bring awareness to important causes is one of the best parts of this,” Mackay says. “I want people to see that fitness and empowerment go hand in hand.”

The event was covered extensively by local media, and several participants shared their own stories of how the competitors had inspired them to lead healthier lives. The shelter’s director, Megan Harrison, said, “We’re delighted to have such young, energetic role models on our side. Their presence brings new energy to our community.”

Social Media Buzz and Future Ambitions

Mackay’s online presence is growing rapidly. Her Instagram account, @ChloeMackayFit, currently boasts over 18,000 followers. Posts showcasing her training routines, behind‑the‑scenes moments from the runway, and candid selfies with fans have resonated with a younger audience. She’s not only promoting her personal brand; she’s also championing body positivity. “There are so many people who look at competition results and feel like they’re missing out. I want to prove that you don’t need a perfect body to be confident,” she says.

The “On the Up” series notes that Mackay has already begun planning for the next step in her career. She has been invited to attend the “World Bikini Championships” in Bali, a two‑week event featuring contestants from 20 countries. Her coaches believe she is ready for the international stage, and they’re currently working on her wardrobe, stage choreography and sponsorship deals.

A Look Ahead

Chloe Mackay’s ascent in the bikini competition world is not just a story of individual success – it’s a testament to the supportive ecosystem in Northland that nurtures talent, encourages community involvement and celebrates diversity. From her early days in the pool to her current status as a national contender, Mackay demonstrates that athletic discipline can coexist with creativity and social responsibility.

The Northern Advocate’s “On the Up” feature paints a full portrait of a young woman who has redefined what it means to shine in a field often dominated by stereotypes. By harnessing her platform for empowerment, charity and positive body image, Mackay is not just winning titles; she’s building a legacy that will inspire the next generation of Northlanders to pursue their dreams, both on and off the stage.