Hannes Eilers

Congrats on becoming the new Mr. Gay Auckland! What did you have to do to win the competition?

Well I was pretty much prepared and tried to entertain the audience and judges in a different way to impress them. I guess it is much harder to convince them if you are not a spring chicken anymore! One guy said I'm almost the same age as his father, and so I was laughing before the competition started. I also giggled as they started with a make up session, it was so funny.

How did it feel when you won?
At that moment I was shocked and proud of myself at the same time. I guess it was not bad for a 'dad'. It just felt really great. I was a bit nervous when I talked to the crowd, but want to thank everybody again for a great night.

What's your background, and where did you grow up?
I grew up in Germany in a little village close to Hamburg, worked and lived in Muenster for a while and have great family and friends back home. I came to New Zealand three years ago, fell in love with the country and met my partner Shannon.

When did you come out as gay, and what was it like for you at the time?
I was 23 when I first went to a gay club just by myself, I had a good night and met people I'm still good friends with. As I grew up in a Catholic family, it was not easy at all. My family just couldn't talk about this topic for a while. I was pretty lucky that I have friends who stood by my side and supported me during this period. Today my family is happy that I made my choice.

What do you do for work?
I'm a Hotel Manager in a gay friendly B&B (Hastings Hall) and also temporarily work in a gay friendly Backpackers - the Brown Kiwi in Ponsonby.

What do you think are the most pressing issues currently facing the NZ's gay community?
Unfortunately still too high levels of HIV infections. Cover up boys! Many gay venues offer free condoms - and even a few dollars is better than compromising your health. I would also like to see more acceptance of each other between the generations.

Which LGBT people do you most look up to?
There is nobody in particular I'm looking up to. I guess everybody has some attributes that we can look up to.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Nothing, I'm happy and healthy.

Which are your favourite movies?
Seven, Fight club, the Cell, Amelie….

Your favourite TV programmes?
The Simpsons

Your favourite websites?
Trademe

Who in the world (including NZ) would you most like to have a coffee and a chat with and why?
Tina Turner, I adore her for her success and personality

If you could have one wish granted what would it be?
Peace.