Up to 150 greyhounds to be sent to Australia as racing ban begins
New Zealand has officially banned greyhound racing, leading to the export of up to 150 dogs to Australia to continue racing. A transition agency is managing the rehoming of the remaining 1,400 dogs while ensuring their welfare through contractual oversight.
Why it matters
The ban highlights the growing global tension between animal welfare advocacy and the commercial interests of the racing industry.
The final greyhound races are being held in New Zealand today and the industry has confirmed plans to send up to 150 dogs to Australia to continue racing.
The New Zealand racing ban, which takes effect on Saturday, follows years of animal welfare concerns.
Ten greyhounds have been euthanised this season, including one in the final days of racing.
From Saturday the Greyhound Racing Transition Agency takes on the task of rehoming an estimated 1400 dogs.
The transition agency's head Heather Simpson said she was aware that Greyhound Racing New Zealand had organised charter flights for about 150 dogs to go to Australia.
"There is nothing in the legislation that stops trainers choosing to export their dogs to Australia, some of these dogs actually will be partly owned by Australians."
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