Govt announces plan to end greyhound racing in NZ

The Government has announced plans to end greyhound racing in New Zealand.

In a statement this afternoon, Racing Minister Winston Peters said the Government intended to wind down racing over 20 months to enable the rehoming of racing dogs and provide a transition period for those involved in the industry.

Peters said it was "not a decision that is taken lightly" but is “ultimately driven by protecting the welfare of racing dogs”.

He said the industry had been on notice for several years over animal welfare concerns and there had been three major reviews, all which recommended significant change.

“We acknowledge the work done by Greyhound Racing New Zealand to improve safety. While fewer dogs are dying, injury rates, while down slightly, have plateaued and remain unacceptably high,” Peters said today.

Peters said the wind-down period would begin today with the introduction of the Racing Industry (Unlawful Destruction of Specified Greyhounds) Amendment Bill.

“Further legislation to enable the end to greyhound racing is required. A bill to make the necessary changes to the Racing Industry Act 2020 will be introduced to Parliament in 2025. There will be a full select committee process so everyone will have a chance to have their say,” Peters said.

Peters said that a key task would be rehoming the estimated 2900 racing greyhounds in New Zealand.

"An Advisory Committee has been appointed to help manage the transition process," he said.

“The Committee members are Heather Simpson (Chair), Murray Johnson and Lindsay Burton. They will provide advice on ensuring animal welfare, and support for those involved in the industry.

“Keeping unwanted dogs safe is a priority. The Government is working with animal welfare organisations to establish programmes to support rehoming.”