Greyhounds bound for Australia as New Zealand racing ban takes effect
New Zealand has officially banned greyhound racing, prompting some trainers to relocate their dogs to Australia to continue the sport. While most dogs will be rehomed, the move has sparked debate regarding animal welfare and the industry's social license.
Why it matters
It highlights the tension between animal rights legislation and the survival of niche sporting industries across international borders.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Harry Sekulich BBC News, Sydney Phil Walter/Getty Images New Zealand has outlawed greyhound racing, but neighbouring Australia has not At least two chartered flights carrying up to 150 greyhounds are set to fly to Australia's eastern states, as a New Zealand ban on the sport comes into effect.
Several greyhound trainers in New Zealand are responding to a new ban by moving their dogs to Australia with plans to continue in the sport, governing body Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) told the BBC.
While the ban across New Zealand takes effect on Saturday, the practice remains legal almost everywhere in Australia.
The ban was first announced in December 2024 , and legislated in April. Approximately 1,400 greyhounds will retire in New Zealand under the ban and require rehoming.
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