NZ Votes to End Greyhound Racing, Sets 2026 Deadline in Animal Welfare Reform

In a historic and decisive move, New Zealand has passed legislation to ban greyhound racing, marking the end of the industry after years of mounting animal welfare concerns and aligning the country with a growing global shift away from the sport.

The Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill cleared its third and final reading in Parliament with overwhelming cross-party support—112 votes to 11—signaling rare political consensus on an issue that has long divided opinion.

Racing Minister Winston Peters described the decision as a "clear reflection of the will of New Zealanders" and a necessary step to restore confidence in animal welfare standards.

Years of Warnings Lead to Final Decision

The move follows multiple independent reviews conducted in 2013, 2017, and 2021, all of which identified persistent and serious welfare issues within the industry.

While some reforms were introduced over the years, the Government concluded that:

• Progress had stalled

• Injury and death rates remained unacceptably high

• The sport had effectively lost its social licence to operate

"This action wasn't taken lightly," Peters said. "But the evidence was clear—incremental improvements were no longer enough."

A Global Trend Gains Momentum

New Zealand's decision reflects a broader international movement to phase out greyhound racing. The sport is now limited to a shrinking number of jurisdictions worldwide.

Notably, since New Zealand signaled its intention to ban the sport, regions including:

• Scotland

• Wales

• Tasmania

have also indicated plans to end greyhound racing, highlighting a rapidly shifting global stance on animal welfare in sport.

Transition Plan: Focus on Dogs and Workers

The legislation goes beyond simply banning racing—it establishes a structured, government-backed transition framework to manage the industry's closure responsibly.

A dedicated transition agency will be set up to oversee the process, led by:

• Heather Simpson (Chair)

• Murray Johnson

• Dr Lindsay Burton

• A fourth member to be appointed

Key Priorities of the Transition Agency

1. Greyhound Welfare and Rehoming

• Ensuring high standards of care during the transition period

• Providing housing, training, and behavioural support

• Expanding partnerships with rehoming organisations to increase adoption capacity

2. Support for Industry Workers

• Job retraining and redeployment programmes in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development

• Financial and employment transition assistance

3. Mental Health and Wellbeing

• Dedicated support services for individuals whose livelihoods and identities are closely tied to the industry

"This is not about shutting the door and walking away," Peters said. "It's about managing change responsibly—for both people and animals."

Addressing Misinformation and Public Concerns

The Government has pushed back against claims that the closure will leave dogs and workers unsupported.

"There has been misinformation suggesting abandonment. That is simply wrong," Peters stated, emphasizing that funding, infrastructure, and support systems are already being put in place.

Timeline: A Phased Exit by 2026

The ban will take full effect from 1 August 2026, providing a transition window of more than two years to:

• Safely rehome thousands of greyhounds

• Wind down racing operations

• Support workers into new employment pathways

This phased approach is designed to avoid sudden disruption while ensuring humane and orderly closure.

Economic and Social Implications

The greyhound racing industry, while smaller than other racing codes, has supported:

• Trainers and kennel operators

• Event staff and betting-related roles

• Regional economies linked to racing events

However, public sentiment has increasingly shifted toward stronger animal welfare protections, outweighing economic arguments for continuation.

A Rare Moment of Political Unity

Observers note the 112–11 vote margin as one of the most decisive in recent parliamentary history on a social issue.

"This is a rare moment when Parliament speaks with a unified, principled voice," Peters said. "Those moments matter."

What Comes Next

Attention will now turn to:

• The effectiveness of rehoming efforts

• The success of workforce transition programmes

• Long-term monitoring of animal welfare outcomes

Advocates have welcomed the decision as a landmark victory for animal rights, while industry participants will be closely watching how support measures are implemented.

As the countdown to 2026 begins, New Zealand positions itself at the forefront of a global shift toward more ethical treatment of animals in sport.