Big prizes spice oat couture

Head judge Francis Hooper, model Jennie Scown and Auckland Racing Club chief executive Chris Weaver. Picture / Dean Purcell

Hundreds of racing fans in elaborate outfits will indulge in the glamour of New Zealand's largest outdoor fashion event, at Ellerslie on Boxing Day.

The Mercedes Fashions in the Field contest was launched yesterday at design store World Deluxe. It will be held on Mercedes Derby Day - Ellerslie's biggest race day of the year - as part of the New Zealand Herald Summer Carnival.

Francis Hooper, creator of fashion label World, will be the chief judge.

"I'll be looking for something contemporary and modern, a young and funky look with newness and attitude," he said.

Auckland Racing Club chief executive Chris Weaver said anyone could win the top prize, a $64,000 Mercedes sportscar.

"You don't have to be a model. We really encourage your everyday person to enter."

Mr Weaver hoped prizes worth $120,000, including a trip to Europe, jewellery and designer clothing, would boost last year's numbers, when about 25,000 people attended the meeting and another 150 lined up for the fashion contests.

Prizes will be shared over three categories: ladies' racewear, mens' racewear and hats. The overall winner will take home the Mercedes-Benz.

There is also an under-25 style category in the ladies' and mens' racewear.

Other judges include All Black Doug Howlett, TV3 weather presenter Toni Marsh and Herald assistant editor Janetta Mackay. A fifth judge is yet to be confirmed.

People can register for free at the Ellerslie Racing Club website under Fashions in the Field, or on the day until 1pm. The winners' presentation is expected about 4pm.