Matamata’s most stylish raceday is fast approaching, and with it comes one of the highlights of J Swap Matamata Breeders’ Stakes Day — Fashions in the Field. We’re thrilled to announce three exceptional judges who bring fashion authority, racing insight and a genuine love of raceday style to the judging panel.
Judge 1: Lulu Wilcox
A respected name in New Zealand fashion, Lulu Wilcox brings more than 25 years’ experience as a fashion editor, stylist and creative director across editorial, television and runway. Originally from Matamata, Lulu’s return to judge this year’s event is especially meaningful — a homecoming to the town where her fashion journey first began.
A familiar and trusted face on race-day judging panels around the country, Lulu is known for her expert eye and appreciation of classic racewear with a modern twist. She looks for polished silhouettes, thoughtful detail and confident individuality — style that feels effortless yet considered.
Now based in Auckland, Lulu continues to work across fashion, interiors and lifestyle, bringing a refined but wearable aesthetic to everything she does. Coming home to Matamata to judge this event makes the role particularly special, and she’s excited to be part of a day that celebrates racing, fashion and flair in equal measure.
Judge 2: Soraya Gurney
Soraya Gurney brings a unique blend of behind-the-scenes expertise and on-stage experience to Matamata Fashions in the Field. Having worked within the marketing team at Auckland Thoroughbred Racing, Soraya played an integral role in delivering raceday fashion competitions throughout the season, including the prestigious The Ned Prix de Fashion national final.
Equally impressive is her experience in front of the judges. Soraya is a two-time Boxing Day Fashions in the Field winner, has sashed at events around the country and was a Grand Finalist in The Ned Prix de Fashion. She has also previously judged and MC’d raceday fashion competitions, giving her a well-rounded perspective on what truly stands out on the day.
Coming from a racing family with lifelong ties to the industry, Soraya has a deep respect for tradition, balanced with a love of contemporary racewear. She is drawn to looks that feel confident and individual, with strong attention to detail and styling that reflects the wearer’s personality.
Judge 3: Chad McCartney
With one of the best eyes in New Zealand, Chad McCartney’s 15-year career in the entertainment industry has taken him from the editorial desks of the country’s leading women’s magazines to the world’s most influential fashion stages. He has worked as an Editorial and Picture Editor for titles including The Australian Women’s Weekly NZ, Woman’s Day, NZ Woman’s Weekly, and New Idea, and as a Model Agent for New Zealand’s largest agency. Chad regularly attends glamorous international events such as New York Fashion Week and Vogue World in London.
A trained photographer with a distinctive visual sensibility, Chad is known for his ability to spot style, storytelling, and individuality before anyone else. Despite his international career, he holds the Matamata community close to his heart, valuing its friendly locals and the unique creativity and flair found in a town that is racing ahead. Chad is thrilled to help select the 2026 Best Dressed, alongside Lulu Wilcox and Soraya.
Matamata Fashions in the Field takes place as part of J Swap Matamata Breeders’ Stakes Day on Saturday 14 February, Matamata’s million-dollar raceday.
Tickets are on sale now, with free admission and free entry to Fashions in the Field — making it the perfect day to dress up, head trackside and be part of one of the Waikato’s most stylish racing celebrations.
We can’t wait to see what you bring to the runway.
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