New Zealand to Ban Greyhound Racing by 2026

The New Zealand government has proposed a ban on greyhound racing by 2026, citing persistently high injury rates among the dogs involved in the sport despite some improvements in fatality statistics. Minister for Racing Winston Peters stated that the decision is driven by the need to protect animal welfare, following several reviews that recommended significant changes in the industry. The phased ban will last 20 months, and an advisory committee will assist in rehoming approximately 2,900 racing dogs affected by the closure. The legislation, supported by the Labour party, aims to prevent unnecessary deaths of these animals and will further outlaw greyhound racing in 2024. Industry representatives expressed disappointment, arguing that the sector has made substantial progress in animal welfare, but Peters emphasized that the high injury statistics necessitated decisive action. New Zealand is one of only five countries where greyhound racing is still permitted, and the industry contributes significantly to the national racing economy.