31 Jul 2026
2 months ago
692 views
Racing Minister Winston Peters announced the end of commercial greyhound racing by 31 July 2026, following legislation passed due to unacceptable injury and death rates in the industry. The Greyhound Transition Agency has been appointed to coordinate the fully funded Greyhound Rehoming Project, providing financial support to owners and trainers until the estimated 1400 dogs are rehomed. Peters emphasized strong public support for ending racing, highlighted the industry's recent fatality, and called on New Zealanders to help provide these dogs with loving homes.
02 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1204 views
Racing Minister Winston Peters has welcomed the passing of legislation to end greyhound racing in New Zealand, citing serious animal welfare concerns and overwhelming parliamentary support for the bill. The government will establish a transition agency to oversee the wind-down of the industry, support dog rehoming, and assist affected workers with retraining and wellbeing services. The ban will take effect from August 1, 2026, ensuring a responsible and compassionate phase-out aligned with global trends away from the sport.
13 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1167 views
Racing Minister Winston Peters supports plans to rehome greyhounds as New Zealand transitions away from greyhound racing, emphasizing a careful, multi-stage process involving industry input and select committee feedback. The Ministerial Advisory Committee proposes establishing a transition agency to manage dog care, provide mental health and retraining support for industry workers, and collaborate with animal welfare groups to ensure successful rehoming. This transition follows years of reviews highlighting animal welfare issues and reflects strong public support for ending greyhound racing.
20 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1759 views
Cabinet in New Zealand has officially agreed to close the greyhound racing industry, with a bill being drafted to enact this decision by July 31, 2026, following concerns about animal welfare and safety issues outlined in multiple reviews. The Ministerial Advisory Committee has recommended a clear plan for transitioning away from greyhound racing, including re-homing programs and support for industry participants through a Transition Agency funded by the TAB. Racing Minister Winston Peters emphasizes the importance of public input during the process, highlighting the global trend of phasing out greyhound racing due to ongoing welfare and safety concerns.
22 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2314 views
The Racing Minister of New Zealand, Winston Peters, emphasizes animal welfare as a priority in planning for the intended end of greyhound racing in the country. An Advisory Committee has presented an interim report outlining the transition process, which includes rehoming plans for the greyhounds currently involved in the sport. The report also addresses concerns about financial support for owners and trainers, with the recommendations set to be reviewed by Cabinet before any decisions are made.