The Government has announced the closure of the greyhound racing industry.
The New Zealand government has finally decided to put an end to the greyhound racing industry, with the closure expected by August 2026. This decision follows years of advocacy from various groups, including the Green Party and animal welfare organizations. The move is seen as a significant step forward for animal welfare in the country.
As part of this announcement, a Bill has been introduced to prohibit unauthorized euthanasia. The Green Party's Animal Welfare and Racing Spokesperson, Steve Abel, welcomes this decision and acknowledges Minister Winston Peters' decisive action. Abel notes that successive reports highlighting cruelty and neglect within the industry were previously ignored by previous governments.
The Government's move is also seen as a response to overwhelming public support for ending greyhound racing. In fact, three-quarters of New Zealanders polled by the SPCA have expressed their desire to see an end to the industry. As the industry winds down, Abel emphasizes the importance of protecting animal welfare and supporting workers who rely on it.
The closure of the greyhound racing industry is seen as a landmark decision for New Zealand's treatment of animals, with potential implications for policy-making going forward.