SPCA celebrates Parliamentary Committee report supporting an end to commercial greyhound racing 

SPCA welcomes the report released today by the Primary Production Committee on the Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill.

The Bill will now return to Parliament for its second reading, followed by the Committee of the Whole House and the third and final reading. If passed as expected, the Bill will end commercial greyhound racing in New Zealand and racing will cease on 31 July 2026.

This will mark the beginning of a new chapter for greyhounds in New Zealand, where they are protected from the harm of commercial racing and cherished as companion animals.

Dr Arnja Dale, SPCA Chief Scientific Officer, says: “This report represents a turning point for greyhound welfare in New Zealand. The evidence is clear that commercial greyhound racing exposes dogs to unacceptable and preventable harm. Ending this industry will allow greyhounds to live safe, comfortable lives as part of a family.”

The issues at the heart of this legislation remain current. Just last weekend, a four-year-old greyhound, Need a Favour, was euthanised after sustaining a broken wrist in which the bone pierced the skin during a race at the Whanganui Greyhound Racing Club. His preventable death underscores the ongoing risks greyhounds face while racing continues.

Public interest in the future of greyhound racing has been substantial. 75% of the New Zealand public support the ban. The Committee received thousands of submissions, reflecting the depth of concern many New Zealanders hold for greyhound welfare. This consultation was an important opportunity for all stakeholders to have their say.

SPCA acknowledges that the Committee’s recommendation to progress the Bill will be an emotional and difficult decision for some people, particularly those whose livelihoods are tied to the racing industry.

However, the public expects policy decisions to reflect views of independent experts and the wider community, rather than those with a direct commercial interest. SPCA commends the Committee for recognising the evidence supports a ban.

SPCA is aware that some people have voiced concerns the greyhound breed will ‘die out’ because of the racing ban. We want to assure communities that the breed has been around for thousands of years, long before racing began, and like many other breeds that no longer are bred for their previous purpose, will continue through reputable breeders.

New Zealand is not alone in progressing legislation to ban greyhound racing. This week, Wales progressed legislation to ban commercial greyhound racing; next week Scotland is expected to pass legislation to ban greyhound racing; earlier this month the United States moved to prohibit dog racing nationwide; Tasmania continues to advance plans to phase out the industry.

These developments reflect a growing global consensus that the welfare risks inherent in greyhound racing can no longer be justified.

SPCA looks forward to the next stage of the parliamentary process and remains committed to advocating for the welfare of all animals in Aotearoa.