By Josh Heslop

Former model and cheerleader Sara Tetro is no stranger to a camera lens, but becoming the host of New Zealand’s Next Top Model was a new challenge for the star. “It’s a tough thing to get used to seeing yourself on television and hearing your own voice,” she says.“It takes quite a while to see that and get used to that.” But Tetro is doing it all again, joining Colin Mathura-Jeffree and Chris Sisarich on the judging panel for the second cycle of the hit reality show.

Tonight’s first episode will see 33 hopefuls modelling around Wellington’s waterfront vying for a spot in the final 13. It’s a long way from the hundreds who took part in nationwide auditions earlier this year. “We had girls this time who I think auditioned for us like they were auditioning for an acting role,” says Tetro.

“We weren’t looking to cast characters – girls’ personalities unfold when they’re in a competitive environment so we don’t need to create that.” This season is set to throw competitors on a crash course of fashion shoots, runway challenges and overseas assignments. Despite all the drama that comes with the reality show, Tetro says Top Model is all about finding great talent.

The show has even opened up opportunities to those who might have never considered a modelling career. “There are girls we find in small towns; there are girls who come in to support a friend and end up on the programme,” she says “That’s talent that we wouldn’t have discovered otherwise and that’s really exciting.” Tetro has been running her successful talent agency, 62 Models, for over a decade.

She has a busy schedule juggling commitments as a celebrity manager, agent, and mother to two young girls. Working hard and getting results is something she instils in her children and those she works with, including top models. “I’m a staunch believer in the fact that I think it’s awesome to be a tall poppy,” she says.

“I think there are incredibly talented people in this country and a lot of them keep their heads down.” As for the competition, Tetro says it’s harder this year to pick a stand out.“I don’t have winner in my mind,” she says. “Girls have great weeks and girls can have a bad day at work and I’m still letting it unfold. “It’s great, I love that, it’s exciting for it to be like that for me.” New Zealand’s Next Top Model begins tonight at 7.30 on TV3.

Source

http://www.3news.co.nz/Top-Model-host-Sara-Tetro-ready-for-season-two/tabid/418/articleID/169295/Default.aspx