New Zealand Moves Ahead With Greyhound Racing Phase-Out

New Zealand is taking the next major step toward ending greyhound racing, with Racing Minister Winston Peters welcoming a comprehensive plan focused on rehoming thousands of racing greyhounds while supporting workers and businesses affected by the industry's closure.

The transition plan, currently progressing through the parliamentary process, outlines a structured pathway to wind down the sport while prioritising animal welfare, employment support, and long-term rehoming solutions.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Humane Transition

Racing Minister Winston Peters said the government had always intended to support the industry and its workers throughout the transition away from greyhound racing, rejecting claims that participants would be left without assistance.

"The intention was always to support the industry as it transitions away from greyhound racing," Peters said.

"There has been a campaign of misinformation about greyhounds and owners being left to fend for themselves, but this was never the case."

According to the minister, the government deliberately allowed the proposal to go through a full parliamentary select committee process to ensure transparency and allow stakeholders to contribute to the transition framework.

"The Select Committee has now completed its work and reported back. Everyone, including representatives of the greyhound racing sector, rehoming groups, and members of the public, have had the opportunity to have their say," he said.

New Transition Agency to Oversee Greyhound Welfare

A key feature of the plan is the creation of a dedicated transition agency responsible for managing the phase-out of greyhound racing and coordinating the care and rehoming of dogs leaving the sport.

Under options presented by the Ministerial Advisory Committee, the agency could temporarily assume ownership of racing greyhounds and fund their ongoing care until permanent homes are found.

This would include covering food, veterinary care and housing costs, ensuring that no dogs are abandoned during the industry shutdown.

Greyhound racing currently involves several thousand dogs across New Zealand, with industry data indicating hundreds retire from racing each year. The government aims to ensure that every affected animal is placed into a safe home through coordinated adoption programs.

Behavioural Training to Improve Adoption Success

The transition strategy also includes specialised behavioural training and rehabilitation programs designed to prepare former racing greyhounds for life as household pets.

Greyhounds raised in racing environments often require adjustment before entering domestic settings. The new initiative would provide structured behavioural support to improve adoption outcomes and reduce pressure on animal shelters.

Animal welfare organisations, including the SPCA and established greyhound rehoming groups, are expected to play a central role in the nationwide rehoming effort.

The government plans to partner closely with these organisations to scale up adoption networks and ensure adequate resources are available throughout the transition.

Support Package for Workers and Industry Participants

Recognising the impact on people whose livelihoods depend on greyhound racing, the government has included a series of workforce support measures.

These include:

• Mental health and wellbeing services for trainers, handlers, and other industry participants whose daily lives are tied to greyhound racing.

• Retraining and career transition programs to help workers move into new industries.

• Employment assistance and skills training to support long-term job placement.

Industry stakeholders have previously warned that the closure of greyhound racing could affect hundreds of workers across breeding operations, training facilities, racing venues and associated services.

Officials say the transition program aims to provide structured pathways into alternative employment while minimising economic disruption.

Multi-Stage Transition Designed to Avoid Disruption

The government emphasised that the phase-out will occur gradually rather than through an abrupt shutdown.

"We're ready for a smooth transition, with planning focused on certainty, support, and, most importantly, ensuring the welfare of greyhounds," Peters said.

"This is a deliberate, multi-stage process designed to ensure fairness and good outcomes for both people and animals. Nothing changes overnight, and the Government's focus remains on a smooth and responsible transition."

Over the coming months, policymakers will refine the transition framework using feedback gathered during the select committee process and further consultation with industry representatives and animal welfare organisations.

Years of Reviews Highlight Animal Welfare Concerns

The decision to end greyhound racing follows more than a decade of scrutiny over the industry's treatment of animals.

Government reviews conducted in 2013, 2017 and 2021 repeatedly highlighted serious welfare issues, including injury rates, breeding practices and the fate of dogs after racing careers ended.

Animal welfare advocates have long argued that systemic reforms were insufficient to address these concerns, ultimately pushing policymakers toward a complete phase-out of the sport.

Strong Public Support for Ending Greyhound Racing

Public opinion surveys have consistently shown strong support for banning greyhound racing in New Zealand.

According to polling cited by officials, a large majority of New Zealanders support ending the sport, particularly due to animal welfare concerns.

The government formally announced plans in late 2024 to wind down the industry, triggering the development of the current transition framework.

Next Steps in the Greyhound Racing Phase-Out

With the select committee process completed, the next phase will involve implementing the transition structure, including establishing the dedicated oversight agency and expanding rehoming programs nationwide.

Officials say the focus now shifts toward ensuring that both animals and people affected by the decision receive long-term support.

The government expects the transition planning to continue over the coming months as it finalises timelines, funding mechanisms and operational frameworks to bring greyhound racing in New Zealand to a responsible close.