Headline: New Zealand to Ban Greyhound Racing

Wellington, NZ – In a landmark move hailed by animal welfare advocates, the New Zealand government has announced it will ban greyhound racing by August 1, 2026, following years of scrutiny and ongoing concerns about animal welfare standards in the industry.

The decision comes after repeated calls from the public, advocacy groups, and independent reports highlighting persistent issues with injuries, fatalities, and the treatment of racing dogs, despite prior attempts at reform.

Why the Ban?

Racing Minister Winston Peters stated that “despite years of reviews and attempts at improvement, greyhound racing has failed to meet acceptable animal welfare standards.” The ban will bring New Zealand in line with a growing number of countries phasing out or restricting the industry due to ethical concerns.

Industry Reaction

The decision has been met with disappointment from Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ). Chairman Sean Hannan described the move as a *"devastating blow"* to those who depend on the sport for their livelihood and emphasized the efforts the industry had made in recent years to improve animal welfare practices.

Advocacy Groups Celebrate

Animal rights groups such as SAFE have welcomed the ban. The organization recently condemned the export of over 80 greyhounds to Australia, accusing the industry of sidestepping the coming prohibition.

“This is a victory for animal welfare,” said a SAFE spokesperson. “Greyhounds are sentient beings, not tools for entertainment.”

“Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security,” von der Leyen stated during the Brussels launch. ”