As long-time supporters of Waikato Thoroughbred Racing and passionate advocates for “beauty from within,” Adashiko is once again front and centre for one of the Waikato's most stylish days of the year. We sat down with Luci Firth from Adashiko to talk racing fashion, collagen, and how to achieve that unmistakable Adashiko glow on raceday.
You’ve been a long-time supporter of WTR and racing fashion. What made Adashiko originally decide to sponsor a racing fashion event?
Luci: My family has a long history with horses. My late mother owned racehorses and was the first woman on the Wairarapa Racing Board, so I spent much of my childhood at race meetings. I also rode ponies and horses into my late 20s, competing in show circuits and show jumping around New Zealand.
Supporting racing fashion was a natural fit. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about. For me, it’s not just about the fashion, it’s about celebrating a lifestyle that brings together style, wellness, tradition, and community.
How does the idea of “beauty from within” tie into the world of racing style and glamour?
Luci: Racing fashion and Adashiko are a perfect match. Both are centred on beauty, elegance, and high standards - everything we stand for. Your outfit is only one part of the story; true radiance starts from within.
What do you hope racegoers will discover about Adashiko through your presence at the event?
Luci: We hope people discover that beauty isn’t just what you wear—it’s how you feel. With our range of Collagen Powders and our expanding Collagen Skincare Collection, Adashiko supports your skin health and wellbeing from the inside out. Collagen + Racing Beauty is the perfect pairing.
Race days are long and often outdoors. How can collagen support healthy, glowing skin on big fashion days like this?
Luci: Race days are exciting, but they can be tough on your skin. Hours in the sun, wind, and makeup can leave it dry and tired. Collagen is a daily go-to for healthy, glowing skin—especially as natural production slows with age.
Supplementing helps replenish and repair from within. And for a quick refresh during the day, my must-have is our Collagen Hydra+ Multi Mist. Keep it in your handbag! It hydrates, keeps makeup fresh, and ensures you glow from morning to last race.
Many people focus on external prep (hair, makeup, outfits). Why is internal beauty support just as important?
Luci: Real beauty begins from within. Collagen helps keep your skin hydrated, glowing, and strong, and it also supports healthy hair and nails. When you take care of yourself internally, it shows up as natural confidence and radiance no makeup can replicate.
How far in advance should someone start taking collagen before a big event?
Luci: Ideally, start 4–6 weeks beforehand. Collagen works gradually to improve hydration, elasticity, and overall glow—plus you’ll notice stronger hair and nails early on. Think of it as part of your event prep, just like planning your outfit or booking your hair appointment.
Which Adashiko product would you recommend for those wanting their skin to look its very best on raceday?
Luci: My go-to trio is our Collagen Ultra Powder, the Collagen Gel Masque, and the Collagen Hydra+ Multi Mist. The Gel Masque is perfect for the night before or the morning of—it hydrates, soothes, and leaves your skin smooth and dewy. People will notice the Adashiko Glow all day. And don’t forget to carry the Multi Mist with you; it keeps makeup fresh and skin radiant from race one to the afterparty.
What sets Adashiko collagen apart from other options on the market?
Luci: We use 100% pure, Japanese-made collagen peptides—widely known as “Super Collagen.” Japan produces the highest quality collagen in the world, and ours is easily absorbed for faster, more noticeable results. No fillers, no additives, just pure, high-quality collagen backed by science and loved by our community.
Collagen doesn’t just support skin. What other benefits might racegoers enjoy?
Luci: Collagen supports overall wellbeing. It’s essential for joint health, helping cushion and lubricate joints for flexibility and mobility. It’s also great for gut health—supporting a strong gut lining, smoother digestion, and reduced inflammation. You can enjoy the raceday treats while feeling your best.
Do you have simple habits people can include in their lead-up routine for brighter, firmer-looking skin?
Luci: Stay consistent with collagen, drink lots of water, and exfoliate with our Adashiko Polishing Exfoliant two or three times a week. Follow with a Collagen Gel Masque the night before or morning of for maximum radiance.
What foods or routines complement Adashiko collagen for optimal results?
Luci: Adashiko collagen is heat-stable and flavourless, so it’s incredibly easy to add to your day. Stir it into your morning coffee, blend it into smoothies, mix it into soups, or even bake it into your favourite treats. Consistency is key.
What’s your number-one glowing-skin tip for racegoers?
Luci: Stay consistent with your collagen, hydrate, wear SPF, and follow a solid skincare routine—our Collagen Cleanse, Collagen + Noni Gel, and Collagen Gel Masques are essentials. And above all, remember that confidence is the ultimate glow-up.
Is Adashiko working on any exciting new products you can share?
Luci: Yes! I can’t give everything away just yet, but we’re working on something very special for joint support. Look out in the new year for a game-changing gel designed to keep you moving comfortably and feeling your best.
What message would you like to leave with everyone celebrating racing fashion today?
Luci: Racing fashion is all about expressing yourself. Own your look, wear it with confidence, and let feeling amazing in your own skin be your best accessory.
Interested in trying your luck in the Adashiko Fashion Stakes at SkyCity Hamilton Waikato Cup Day (13 Dec) this year?