Racing Minister Winston Peters says new plans to rehome greyhounds are a key step in the Government’s transition away from greyhound racing, as preparations continue for the sport’s closure in New Zealand.
Peters said the intention had always been to support those involved in the industry while ensuring the welfare of thousands of racing dogs as the sector winds down.
“The intention was always to support the industry as it transitions away from greyhound racing,” Peters said in a release.
“There has been a campaign of misinformation about greyhounds and owners being left to fend for themselves, but this was never the case.”
The update follows the completion of a select committee process examining legislation needed to formally end the sport. Peters said the process allowed industry representatives, animal welfare groups and the public to contribute before the Government moved ahead with the next stage of the transition.
Cabinet has already approved the closure of the greyhound racing industry, confirming last year’s decision to phase out the sport by July 31, 2026, with legislation expected to be introduced later this year.
The Government has established a Ministerial Advisory Committee to oversee the transition, and its proposed plan outlines several measures aimed at ensuring dogs are safely rehomed and people working in the industry are supported.
Key proposals include the creation of a dedicated transition agency to manage the end of greyhound racing and oversee the care and rehoming of dogs leaving the sport.
Under the plan, the agency could take over ownership of greyhounds and fund their food and care until permanent homes are found.
Additional support would also be provided for those working in the industry, including mental health and wellbeing services for people whose livelihoods and daily lives are closely tied to greyhound racing, along with retraining and employment assistance.
The plan also includes training and behavioural support for greyhounds to improve their chances of adoption, as well as collaboration with animal welfare organisations such as the SPCA and rehoming groups.
“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.”
The move to end greyhound racing follows several government reviews over the past decade that repeatedly raised concerns about animal welfare in the sport.
Reviews in 2013, 2017 and 2021 highlighted persistent problems including injury rates and the treatment of racing dogs, leading to increasing pressure for reform or closure.
Animal welfare advocates have long argued the sport is beyond reform, citing injuries, living conditions and the euthanasia of dogs that are no longer able to race.
Public opinion has also shifted in recent years, with polls indicating a large majority of New Zealanders support ending greyhound racing.
