With just over a week till he flies out, Mr Gay NZ 2012 Andreas Derleth is busy getting ready to represent his adopted country at Mr Gay World in South Africa. The hunky German-born 32-year-old won an all-expenses paid trip to the world pageant when he took out a closely-fought battle with Mr Gay Wellington Marcus Fenson in February. Derleth also won the public vote on Facebook, which made up 20 per cent of the score. He says he is happy with his preparation for Mr Gay World, which runs from 4-8 April in Johannesburg. “There are several parts to it,” Derleth explains. “Of course the planning of the journey itself, outfits for the different appearances, research about current glbt matters in different parts of the world, physical fitness for the sports challenge, presents for the other delegates, a nice NZ item for a charity auction, etc. “We have a delegates handbook that really helps and explains a lot about what, where, when and how – a full on programme!” Derleth is excited about meeting people from all over the world and being part of a competition which raises awareness of the glbt community. He hopes to bring the title home, but also to make some new friends who he will invite to visit New Zealand. Mr Gay NZ 2011 Aaron Comis finished fifth at Mr Gay World last year and also won Mr Gay Photogenic.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 26th March 2012 - 11:01am