New Zealand greyhound racing ban takes effect
A US$35m transition programme aims to rehome around 1,400 greyhounds.
New Zealand.- Commercial greyhound racing has come to an end in New Zealand today. A nationwide ban takes effect tomorrow (August 1) following legislation passed unanimously by Parliament earlier this year. The decision was taken after several independent reviews that found persistently high injury and fatality rates despite industry reforms.
The government has established the Greyhound Transition Agency (GTA) to oversee the closure of the industry and coordinate the rehoming of an estimated 1,400 greyhounds. The NZ$60m (US$35m) programme is being funded by TAB New Zealand, with no taxpayer money involved.
Racing Minister Winston Peters said the agency is prepared for the transition. “The GTA has a clear plan, is fully funded and is working with established expert organisations,” he said. While domestic racing has ended, TAB New Zealand will continue to accept bets on greyhound races held overseas.
Meanwhile, Greyhound Racing New Zealand confirmed that up to 150 greyhounds will be sent to Australia to continue racing. GTA chief executive Heather Simpson said the legislation does not prohibit exports by trainers, but stressed that dogs placed under the agency’s care will be rehomed rather than transferred overseas for racing.
The transition agency is expected to operate until 2029, providing financial support to owners and trainers while overseeing the welfare and adoption of the remaining racing greyhounds.
