Calls for Immediate Ban on Greyhound Racing Intensify Amidst Recent Deaths

In the wake of the tragic deaths of three greyhounds within a week and the temporary closure of a racing track, animal welfare charity SAFE is urging a ban on greyhound racing in New Zealand. The call for action comes as Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) suspended races at Manukau Stadium due to a concerning rise in injuries, prompting races to be relocated and international experts to assess the situation.

SAFE’s head of investigations, Will Appelbe, condemned the industry’s practices, emphasizing the appalling nature of injuries witnessed among racing dogs. He stressed that such incidents are not isolated but rather symptomatic of wider industry issues. Appelbe cited alarming statistics, including 2371 injuries and 22 deaths since September 2021, despite previous warnings and calls for improvement in animal welfare standards.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon addressed the matter cautiously, acknowledging concerns raised by both his government and the previous administration. While Luxon expressed personal alignment with past sentiments questioning the future of greyhound racing, he highlighted that no official discussions or decisions had yet taken place. He said it’s “something for the Racing Minister [Winston Peters] to consider”.

In response, GRNZ defended its track record, asserting a significant reduction in race-day euthanasia in recent years due to enhanced welfare measures. The organization emphasized its commitment to rehoming greyhounds with career-ending injuries and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve industry standards.

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