Love, loss & Lorraine - 'THE CHOICE THAT CHANGED MY LIFE'

The former Miss Universe joins fellow Kiwi beauty queens Delyse and Elaine in a new documentary about how life changed after being crowned

- Sophie Neville

Lorraine Downes has always put her trust in the universe. Even in her toughest times, she's held on to the hope that life will again bring her joy and happiness.

And today, as she welcomes the Weekly into the stunning Auckland home she shares with partner Glenn Cotterill, it's clear she's right where she wants to be - embracing this new chapter of her life filled with love, gratitude and optimism.

"When you've experienced loss like I have, you understand what's important in life and what to be grateful for," says the 58-year-old, settling in to chat with her adorable pooch Lulu cuddled up next to her on the sofa.

"You also realise that in just one breath of wind, life can change. Knowing that means you live life in the moment, which is a wonderful thing."

It's almost 40 years since Lorraine was catapulted to global fame when she won Miss Universe, cementing her place as one of our most iconic Kiwis. Over the years, she's held a special place in our hearts, sharing her despair with the loss of her cricket star husband Martin Crowe in 2016, and her courage as she rebuilt her life.

But today, she's talking about her latest project a movie about the Miss New Zealand pageant. The documentary, The Rise and Fall of Miss New Zealand, by Kiwi fashion photographer Neil Gussey, takes a nostalgic look at the history of the competition, and features interviews with commentators and past pageant queens, including Lorraine, Delyse Borley and Elaine Daley.

"It's been a wonderful walk down memory lane," tells Lorraine, who can't help but laugh when reminded that next year will mark 40 years since she was crowned.