Aucklander Sindhya Kirpalani, Mrs New Zealand 2024, plans to establish a charitable organisation to support underprivileged families across communities.
As the year draws to a close, she looks forward to representing New Zealand at the Mrs Globe Contest in 2025 in Shenzhen China and focusing on her social commitment to promoting children’s welfare and mental awareness at home.
“Through my wellness brand, SoleHues, I plan to host workshops and retreats, combining mindfulness, movement, and breathwork to promote inner balance and resilience in 2025 and beyond,” she said.
Ms Kirpalani said that the Year 2024 was about creating impactful initiatives, leading with purpose and using the social platform to spark real change.
She was honoured with an Award for her services to communities at the Tenth Annual Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts and Culture Awards held at Swaminarayan Complex in Papatoetoe, South Auckland on June 17, 2024.
“My mission is to inspire others to embrace their own strength, prioritise well-being and work together to build a kinder, more inclusive world. The Crown marks the start of a journey, but the real impact lies in the lives we touch and the change we inspire,” she said.
On October 12, 2024, the Hunua Room at Aotea Centre in Auckland played host to the grand finale of Mrs New Zealand 2024, organised by Mrs New Zealand Ltd under National Director Nilda Brown. Among 12 talented finalists from different regions of New Zealand, Ms Kirpalani made history as the first woman of Indian origin to be crowned Mrs New Zealand.
A historic achievement
Her friends and colleagues said that Ms Kirpalani’s win was a significant milestone for her and the Indian community in New Zealand. Her achievement showcases the growing diversity and inclusivity of the pageant and reflects the evolving representation of multicultural New Zealand on national and global platforms.
“It was an honour to be the first Indian-origin woman to hold this title. This win represents the beauty of diversity and the strength of our shared humanity. It is a privilege to carry the stories and aspirations of so many, and I hope to inspire others to embrace their identity and chase their dreams,” Ms Kirpalani said.
She said that the road to the Crown was no small feat.
Her journey to the title was shaped by an intensive 12-week training programme conducted by Mrs New Zealand Ltd.
The programme focused on self-improvement, leadership and stage confidence. During the training, she honed her public speaking skills, embraced inner growth and strengthened her ability to inspire and empower others. This preparation refined her outward presentation but also deepened her commitment to her advocacies.
Self-Discovery and Empowerment
Ms Kirpalani said that it has been a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
“The training programme lifted me out of my comfort zone, taught me resilience and helped me realize the power of kindness, confidence, and community. As Mrs New Zealand, I aim to use this platform to advocate for two causes close to her heart: children’s welfare and mental health awareness. I am committed to addressing issues like child poverty, access to mental health resources, and supporting underprivileged families. I will actively work to create initiatives that provide mindfulness, emotional support, and resilience training to communities in need,” she said.
Mrs Kirpalani said that her mission is to inspire others to embrace their inner strength and prioritise well-being.
“When we uplift ourselves, we can uplift others and create a ripple effect of positivity and change,” she said.
(Photo Supplied)
A Night to Remember
Ms Kirpalani said that the finale of Mrs New Zealand tested the contestants were judged on their personality, inner beauty, talent, public speaking skills, self-growth, kindness, ability to empower others and their capability to represent New Zealand globally.
The contestants participated in four rounds including Dance, National Costume, Resort Round and Evening Wear and Q&A.
For the National Costume Round, Mrs Kirpalani was in a striking ensemble inspired by the Tui, one of New Zealand’s iconic native species. Known for its melodious song and iridescent feathers, the Tūī symbolises adaptability, intelligence, and the harmonious balance of beauty and strength.
“The Tūī is a symbol of resilience and uniqueness. Its ability to mimic and adapt reflects how we, as individuals, can learn from our surroundings and grow stronger. Wearing a costume inspired by the tūī was my way of celebrating New Zealand’s rich biodiversity and sending a message of embracing one’s true colours,” Ms Kirpalani said.
A promising future
Ms Kirpalani hopes to carry her advocacies and the values of kindness, empowerment, and resilience at Mrs Globe Contest in 2025 in Shenzhen China.
“The journey does not stop here. It’s a privilege and a responsibility to represent our country, and I hope to make New Zealand proud by showcasing the best of our culture, community, and values,” she said.
Ms Kirpalani believes that her win as the first Indian-origin Mrs New Zealand is a beacon of hope for many aspiring women.
“It highlights the importance of diversity, inclusion, and the strength of perseverance. My journey proves that embracing one’s identity, advocating for meaningful causes, and committing to growth can lead to extraordinary achievements,” she said.
Sindhya Kirpalani is a loving wife and mother, a software delivery lead working for New Zealand’s leading pay tech company. She is a wellness entrepreneur. As the Founder of SoleHues, a well-being brand focused on meditation, dance and breathwork, she is dedicated to promoting mindfulness and mental health awareness.
With her title as Mrs New Zealand 2024, Mrs Kirpalani is determined to inspire and empower women while addressing key societal issues through her advocacy work.
