Following the announcement today that the New Zealand Government plans to end greyhound racing in the country in 2026, Greyhounds Australasia and Greyhound Racing NSW have today issued the following statements.
Greyhounds Australasia Statement:
Greyhounds Australasia urges the New Zealand Government to reconsider the decision to close the greyhound racing in New Zealand.
This is a disappointing move that does not reflect the significant progress made by the industry to address animal welfare concerns and improve racing safety.
Closing greyhound racing will have serious, real-life consequences for the thousands of people involved in racing – decent, hardworking people who take good care of greyhounds.
We will we continue to advocate for the future of racing in New Zealand and are aligned with GRNZ (Greyhound Racing New Zealand) in seeking engagement with the New Zealand Government ahead of the introduction of any bill to close down our industry.
Greyhound Racing NSW Statement:
The New Zealand Government has today announced it plans to end greyhound racing in New Zealand, with the sport to be phased out over the next 20-months, and the final event due to be conducted in July 2026.
While Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) is naturally disappointed from an Australasian perspective, the New Zealand Government’s announcement is a response to circumstances relating specifically to the industry in New Zealand.
