The New Zealand government confirmed today (10 December) intentions to eliminate greyhound racing in the country, with racing minister Winston Peters seeking to submit legislation to allow the shutdown next year.
The government stated in its ruling that the greyhound sector has been put on notice for several years due to animal welfare issues. Three assessments of racing over the last decade have suggested substantial changes to the industry.
Peters stated that more specific legislation would be introduced next year. However, he did indicate that the government plans to phase out greyhound racing over a 20-month period. This, he added, will allow canines to be rehomed while also providing a transition period for industry workers.
“This isn’t a decision taken lightly but is ultimately driven by protecting the welfare of racing dogs,” Peters informed the audience. “Despite significant progress made by the greyhound racing industry in recent years, the percentage of dogs injured remains consistently high, and the time has come to make a decision in the best interests of the animals.”
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“We recognize Greyhound Racing New Zealand’s efforts to improve safety. While fewer dogs are dying, injury rates have plateaued and remain unacceptably high.
Early law to stop the death of racing dogs
Before submitting legislation next year, the government has introduced one measure in response to the market shutdown. The Racing Industry (Unlawful Destruction of Specified Greyhounds) Amendment Bill seeks to eliminate the gratuitous death of racing dogs.
Wilson stated that the government will work quickly to implement legislation to safeguard racing greyhounds.
“Further legislation to enable the end to greyhound racing is required,” Mr. Wilson stated. “A bill to make the necessary changes to the Racing Industry Act 2020 will be introduced in 2025.”One of the most important tasks will be to rehome the estimated 2,900 racing greyhounds in New Zealand.
To support next year’s legislation, the government will conduct a comprehensive select committee procedure. Wilson stated that this will allow all stakeholders and interested parties to voice their opinions.
The government has also formed an advisory council to assist with the transition process if next year’s legislation passes. This group will offer recommendations on animal welfare and help to individuals involved in greyhound racing.
“Keeping unwanted dogs safe is our top priority,” Wilson adds. The government is collaborating with animal welfare NGOs to develop rehoming programs.”
More change in New Zealand
The news comes after the New Zealand government tabled legislation yesterday (9 December) to expand TAB NZ’s current monopoly on retail sports betting and horse racing wagering to include the internet sector.
Earlier this year, the government stated that it will regulate internet casinos for the first time. In July, the administration stated that it hoped to adopt legislation for a licensing system by 2025.
A measure is expected to be filed in April of next year and passed by the end of 2025. The screening and auction procedure will begin in February 2026, with providers starting trading in April 2026. There will be 15 licenses available to internet operators.
Peters also filed legislation to prolong the monopoly, which would change the Racing Industry Act of 2020. TAB NZ would have a stranglehold on New Zealand’s sports and horse racing betting markets.
According to Peters, expanding the monopolistic model to the internet space will boost income and benefit the whole sector. He stated that having TAB NZ as the exclusive online operator will assist to safeguard consumers from illegitimate offshore sites.
Other revisions to the Act include additional powers for the minister to get information from TAB NZ, regulatory supervision to prohibit other operators, and regulation-making authorities for harm prevention and minimisation. In addition, the law would eliminate the point of consumption fee.
Cabinet papers submitted on September 9 suggest that numerous existing operators have expressed an interest in seeking for an online gambling licence in the sector. These include TAB NZ, SkyCity, 888, Bet365, Spin City, SpinBet, and Super Group.
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