Legislation to shut down New Zealand’s greyhound racing industry has moved a step closer after a parliamentary committee recommended the bill proceed — a decision the industry says is inconsistent and unfair.
A report released by the Primary Production Committee has recommended proceeding with legislation to close down the domestic greyhound racing industry. The decision continues a gradual wind‑down process that began after repeated welfare reviews and public calls for change.
The phase-out follows years of animal-welfare concerns, including injuries and deaths among racing dogs, and multiple reviews into the sport’s regulation.
Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) Chief Executive Edward Rennell said the recommendation exposes “contradictions at the heart of the Government’s plan” as New Zealanders will still be able to bet on overseas greyhound races through TAB NZ after the local industry is shut.
“We are disappointed the committee has recommended proceeding with the legislation that will close a lawful, regulated industry here, while still allowing overseas greyhound races to be bet on by New Zealanders at home through TAB NZ,” Rennell said. “The message this Government sends is simple: New Zealand’s moral duty stops at the border.”
According to GRNZ, 4,900 races were held in New Zealand during the 2024/25 season, compared with more than 46,000 Australian races broadcast and bet on here.
GRNZ argues the stance is inconsistent and unfair to those whose livelihoods depend on the sport, particularly in regional areas. Rennell said the full consequences of closure have not been adequately addressed, and the organisation remains concerned about the economic and social impact on trainers, breeders, and support businesses.
“If greyhound racing is unacceptable in New Zealand, how is it acceptable for New Zealand to profit from it when it happens somewhere else?” says Rennell.
Despite the frustration, Rennell said GRNZ will continue to engage constructively with the legislative process and remains committed to “ensuring every greyhound continues to receive the best care and placement” throughout the transition.
Racing Minister Winston Peters said the Government’s focus is on managing the closure responsibly.
“The intention was always to support the industry as it transitions away from greyhound racing,” says Racing Minister Winston Peters.
“This is a deliberate, multi‑stage process designed to ensure fairness and good outcomes for both people and animals. Nothing changes overnight, and the Government’s focus remains on a smooth and responsible transition.”
GRNZ acknowledges the ACT Party has outlined differing views on key aspects of the legislation, emphasising its lack of fairness.
ACT’s view on the Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill urges compensation for the sector.
“Greyhound breeders, owners, and venues invested in good faith. They followed the rules, complied with ever-increasing regulation, and adapted to stronger animal welfare standards,” says ACT MP Cameron Luxton.
Luxton says people have built their lives around greyhound racing and that “if Parliament insists on closing it, the least it can do is treat those people, and the dogs involved, with fairness, transparency, and basic decency”.
“ACT understands the intent of the Bill. We do not oppose moves to support animal welfare, and it is clear the legislation has the support of Parliament. We’d like to see the Bill improved.”
He adds that around 1,600 greyhounds will need to be rehomed.
Animal welfare groups have long called for the sport to be banned, arguing injury rates among racing greyhounds remain unacceptable.
The legislation is expected to continue through Parliament as the Government works toward a staged closure of the greyhound racing industry.
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