Gay Williams (née Phelps) was 21 years old when she was crowned Miss New Zealand. She was brought up on a farm in the Wairarapa, before moving to Auckland to study. She began an arts degree before switiching to teachers' training college. She had just finished her second year when she won the Miss New Zealand contest. Gay wore a red gown and cape for the final event of the contest. The New Zealand Wool Board was one of the contest's biggest sponsors so all of the contestants had to have a wool evening gown. Gay's gown and cape was designed and made by Peggie Wilson who owned the Academy of Elegance in Auckland. The V-necked gown was cut lower at the back and Gay wore it with a diamante brooch and earrings. One of Gay's tasks during her year as Miss New Zealand was to introduce and promote the Woolmark. Her wardrobe for the year was made from wool.