Breaking! On December 10, 2024, the Deputy Prime Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters, who also serves as Racing Minister, announced that greyhound racing in New Zealand will be banned after a 20-month phase-out period.
This is a monumental win for animal rights in Aotearoa and will protect thousands of dogs from unnecessary pain, suffering, and death.
The Minister also introduced the Racing Industry (Unlawful Destruction of Specified Greyhounds) Amendment Bill which will be passed under urgency to prevent the unnecessary killing of racing dogs.
With this ban, the Government has finally honoured the voices of New Zealanders who have fought long and hard to end greyhound racing. This victory is a testament to the tireless campaigning efforts of animal advocates and public outcry for the compassionate treatment of greyhounds.
The Government must now ensure a smooth transition for greyhounds, supporting their rehabilitation and rehoming into permanent, loving homes where they belong.
SAFE is deeply grateful to our amazing supporters for standing beside us every step of the way in our mission to end greyhound racing in Aotearoa. Your unwavering belief in our cause has made all the difference. Together, we are creating a brighter, kinder future for animals. Thank you!
Your donation will directly support our efforts to ensure these dogs are placed into caring, permanent homes. Together, we can make their transition to a life of love and comfort a reality.
On December 10, 2024, the Deputy Prime Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters, who also serves as Racing Minister, announced that greyhound racing in New Zealand will be banned after a 20-month phase-out period. Racing will cease from August 1, 2026.
This landmark decision closes the door on a long legacy of cruelty within the greyhound racing industry, which has seen thousands of dogs maimed and killed in the name of gambling profits.
SAFE is now focused on working with our partner organisations to facilitate a smooth transition for greyhounds into permanent, loving homes where they belong.
Racing is inherently dangerous for dogs. On any given day at a greyhound race, dogs risk suffering from broken bones, dislocations, ruptured muscles, spinal damage, and wounds. Some dogs are left permanently disabled, and others suffer injuries so catastrophic they must be euthanised.
Multiple investigations into the industry reveal countless issues beyond injuries, including poor kennel conditions and methamphetamine exposure. Even under intense scrutiny, the industry has repeatedly failed to demonstrate that they can prioritise the health and welfare of dogs.
Until the recent ban, New Zealand was one of only five countries to still allow commercial dog racing.
Greyhounds are among the most misunderstood dog breeds. It is a misconception that they are high energy and require lots of exercise. The truth is that while they do enjoy short bursts of activity, the rest of the time they love to nap and cuddle.
Greyhounds are well known for being the fastest dogs on the planet ‒ reaching speeds of up to almost 70 kilometres per hour. Their long, lean bodies carry little fat, which is why you‘ll sometimes see them wearing specially made greyhound pyjamas in winter. Sadly, it’s for this reason that the racing industry uses these placid, gentle dogs.
Greyhound racing exists because of a drive for gambling profits, not because greyhounds love to race.
The social license of greyhound racing has well and truly expired in New Zealand.
In August 2021, SAFE and the Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand presented a 38,000-signature petition calling for a ban on greyhound racing in Aotearoa. An independent poll showed that 74% of New Zealanders would vote to ban greyhound racing in a referendum. Corporate sponsorships are also dwindling, with Ray White, Toyota NZ, Ricoh, First Security and the Motor Trade Association all withdrawing their support of the industry.
Until the ban is enacted, New Zealand is one of only five countries where greyhound racing is still practiced. While Australia, Ireland, and the UK still practice greyhound racing regularly, the USA is down to just two operational tracks (both in West Virginia). As global awareness of the industry’s cruelty grows, New Zealand’s continued involvement puts it at odds with the international movement to end dog racing.
A petition with over 100,000 signatures to ban greyhound racing has been recently submitted to the UK government.
As a charity, SAFE is reliant on the support of caring people like you to carry out our valuable work. Every gift goes towards providing education, undertaking research and campaigning for the benefit of all animals. SAFE is a registered charity in New Zealand (CC 40428). Contributions of $5 or more are tax-deductible.