In brief
A significant change is on the horizon for animal welfare in New Zealand, as the government has announced its intention to ban greyhound racing, triggered by alarming injury rates among racing dogs.
New Zealand has officially taken a stand against greyhound racing, revealing plans to phase out the sport due to an “unacceptably high” number of injuries sustained by the dogs. This decision follows a history of controversy surrounding the industry, with allegations of mistreatment and doping by some breeders. To ensure a smooth transition for affected individuals and the welfare of racing dogs, the government will implement a 20-month wind-down period, allowing time for rehoming and job transition.Racing Minister Winston Peters underscored the significance of this policy shift by stating that, despite advancements in the industry, the injury rates remain alarmingly elevated. “The time has come to make a call in the best interest of the animals,” he remarked. Accompanying the announcement was a bill aimed at safeguarding racing dogs from unnecessary euthanasia, which is set to pass with urgency.Over the last decade, repeated reviews of the greyhound racing industry have highlighted the need for dramatic reforms. Recent statistics reveal that in 2021 alone, 232 racing greyhounds perished, and 900 incurred injuries. The situation worsened post-2021; animal rights group Safe documented over 2,500 injuries and nearly 30 fatalities in subsequent years.As the government charts a course for dismantling this industry, an immediate challenge arises in rehoming approximately 2,900 racing greyhounds still active in New Zealand. Activists are celebrating the momentous move, with Safe dubbing it a “monumental win for animal rights,” while the SPCA expressed its excitement and called for similar actions by other countries allowing greyhound racing.In stark contrast, Greyhound Racing New Zealand, representing racing clubs across the nation, expressed dismay over the proposal. The association's chairman Sean Hannan emphasized the emotional toll on the greyhound racing community, highlighting concerns over the cultural and economic gaps such a ban could create. It has been noted that the greyhound racing sector contributes significantly to New Zealand's NZ$1.3 billion ($760 million; £595) racing industry, accounting for 8.5% and providing over 1,000 full-time jobs.“The government's decision to close the industry is profoundly disappointing, as it overlooks the meaningful progress we have achieved,” Hannan stated, urging re-evaluation of the government’s position.
