Animals in farms

The way we raise animals for food can create the ideal conditions for the evolution and transmission of diseases from animals to humans. Intensive farming, wildlife markets and associated trade are all proven causes of outbreaks of new diseases, including the most recent global pandemic, COVID-19. In addition to the grave...

An updated Code of Welfare for Sheep and Beef Cattle is now open for consultation, and it’s a disaster for animals. Rather than lifting standards or upholding the Animal Welfare Act 1999, the code would lock in cruelty and continue to allow harmful practices that cause serious and avoidable suffering.  ...

On 23 April 2024, the Government announced that it planned to repeal national intensive winter grazing regulations through amendments to the Resource Management Act 1991.  SAFE has previously highlighted the devastating effects intensive winter grazing (also known as mud farming) can have on animal welfare. If this legislation is enacted,...

The spread of bird flu, which has led to the killing of tens of millions of farmed birds globally, prompts us to examine the role of intensive animal farming in zoonotic disease outbreaks, and rethink our entire relationship with animals.  What is bird flu?  Bird flu is a contagious disease...

In the ‘big story’ of combating climate change, there’s a chapter that often goes unnoticed: animal agriculture. Unfortunately, without examining that chapter, the story doesn’t make sense.  Here in New Zealand, where agriculture is a cornerstone of our economy, the connection between animal agriculture and greenhouse gas emissions is undeniable.  ...

As a country known for its commitment to animal welfare and ethical standards, New Zealand has long prided itself on leading by example. One of the most significant steps we’ve taken in this regard is the ban on live export—a crucial measure that upholds our values and protects the well-being...

Bobby calves are one of the more unpalatable truths of the dairy industry. Autumn/winter calving is the busiest time of the year for ‘bobby calf disposal,’ as it is called in the industry. A bobby calf is a four to 10 day old newborn calf, who is not needed by...