New Zealand to Phase Out Greyhound Racing by 2026 Over Welfare Concerns
The New Zealand government has announced its decision to ban greyhound racing, with a full phase-out set for completion by August 2026. The move, driven by persistent animal welfare concerns, follows years of scrutiny regarding the industry’s high injury and fatality rates. Between 2021 and mid-2024, over 2,500 injuries and 262 deaths were recorded.
Racing Minister Winston Peters stated that despite industry efforts to improve safety, the rate of harm remains unacceptable.
The decision to ban greyhound racing in New Zealand has implications for the sports and entertainment sector, particularly for industry stakeholders such as trainers, breeders, race organisers, and betting operators. The phase-out will require substantial adjustments, including workforce transitions, reallocation of capital, and efforts to repurpose facilities. The transition period aims to assist workers in finding alternative employment and provide for the rehoming of affected greyhounds.
New Zealand joins a growing number of countries rejecting greyhound racing, leaving only a few nations where the sport remains legal. This decision has been praised by animal welfare advocates, highlighting the broader trend of prioritising animal wellbeing in policymaking.
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