08 Oct 2026
2 weeks ago
223 views
The New Zealand Government, led by Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard, is seeking public feedback on proposed rules to prevent dogs from being confined in cages or kennels for excessively long periods, which can cause anxiety, fear, and aggression. The proposals would allow Animal Welfare Inspectors to issue $500 fines to owners if dogs show two or more signs of prolonged confinement harm, while clarifying that normal short-term confinement, such as kennelling at night or during farm work, remains acceptable. Consultation on these rules, including views on dog breeding and commercial services, opens from 12 October to 23 November 2026.
21 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1221 views
The Government has initiated a comprehensive review of the Dog Control Act to address issues with roaming and aggressive dogs, aiming to empower councils with stronger enforcement powers and clearer guidelines. Alongside the review, measures such as police support for high-risk dog control situations, increased monitoring on conservation land, and a $1.2 million grant to the SPCA for dog desexing have been implemented to enhance public safety. The overall focus is on holding dog owners accountable, reducing dog overpopulation, and ensuring communities can safely enjoy public spaces.
18 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1145 views
Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden has granted $468,000 from the Lottery Minister’s Discretionary Fund to the SPCA for a targeted dog desexing program aimed at reducing irresponsible breeding and roaming dogs in Auckland and Northland. This initiative, totaling nearly $1.2 million with the SPCA’s contribution, seeks to improve public safety by preventing dog attacks and controlling the dog population, potentially stopping 7,500 puppies from being born in the first year. The program is part of a broader government effort to address dog-related harm, with progress monitored through quarterly reports and further measures to be announced.
13 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1152 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.
26 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1519 views
The Government is implementing new regulations to ban prolonged tethering of dogs, citing concerns about the negative impact on dog health and behavior. The rules target owners who do not provide sufficient exercise for their dogs, with exceptions for certain situations like working dogs. The changes, effective from 25 September 2025, aim to improve animal welfare and have received strong public support.