Gore District mayor Tracy Hicks describes himself as an old hand when it comes to modelling at the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards.

The Gore-based awards have been running since 1998, and this year, about 300 garments from 215 designers have been entered. Mr Hicks was fitted for his outfits yesterday.

"Tim [Shadbolt, Invercargill city mayor] and I have done a couple now, which has been a new experience for me – and it’s not a career I intend to embark on at all. But it’s great to be part of an event like the Hokonuis, which have become such an icon and great for Gore and the whole of the south," Mr Hicks said.

Somewhat surprisingly, there were similarities between life in public office and hitting the catwalk, he said.

"It’s quite daunting and you never know how you’re going to be received. Fortunately it’s been reasonably good so far. It’s a bit like politics, you never know what’s going to happen until you put your feet in," he said.

As for who was a better model, him or Mr Shadbolt – "There’s no question. It would have to be me." he quipped.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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