Greyhound Racing in New Zealand Set to End on 31 July

The final countdown has begun for the commercial greyhound racing industry in New Zealand. Legally mandated by parliament, all commercial greyhound racing activities across the country are set to officially conclude on 31 July 2026. This historic closure follows years of intense advocacy by the SPCA, independent reviews highlighting serious animal welfare concerns, and strong political consensus that the sport no longer aligns with modern societal values regarding animal protection.

The Path to the Ban

New Zealand has been one of only a handful of countries globally that still permitted commercial greyhound racing. However, the industry has faced intense scrutiny over its animal welfare record. Multiple independent reports and official audits over the years revealed persistent issues, including high rates of track injuries, preventable deaths, and concerns regarding the long-term housing, training, and rehoming of racing greyhounds.

Despite various reform attempts and welfare improvements initiated by the racing sector, government reviews concluded that the industry had failed to meet necessary standards. Consequently, the Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill was introduced and passed by Parliament with an overwhelming majority of 112 votes to 11. The legislation establishes a clear legal timeline, rendering all commercial greyhound racing illegal from 1 August 2026.

Transitioning Greyhounds into Family Homes

With the industry winding down, the primary focus for animal welfare advocates and the government has shifted to the transition of approximately 1,500 greyhounds currently active in the sector. To manage this massive undertaking, the government established a Ministerial Advisory Committee to oversee the industry's wind-down and formulate safe, structured rehoming pathways.

The SPCA is playing an active role in collaborating with the committee, Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ), and independent rescue groups. The goal is to ensure that every dog is assessed, prepared, and safely placed into a loving pet home. Due to their training, greyhounds transitioning from the track often require specialised rehabilitation and socialisation. They must adapt to home environments, learn to interact with other domestic animals, and become comfortable with daily domestic routines.

While greyhounds make affectionate, low-maintenance, and gentle companions, prospective owners must understand their unique needs. Despite their reputation as high-energy racers, greyhounds are often referred to as "45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes." They typically require only moderate daily exercise and spend the majority of their time sleeping and lounging indoors.

Practical Advice for Kiwi Pet Adopters

For families interested in adopting a retired racing greyhound, the transition requires patience and preparation. Welcoming any dog into a household is a long-term commitment that involves ongoing costs, training, and legal obligations.

All dog owners in New Zealand must comply with local animal management regulations. Under the Dog Control Act 1996, all dogs over the age of three months must be registered with their local city or district council, and owners must renew their registrations annually. Furthermore, microchipping is a legal requirement for most domestic dogs to help reunite lost pets with their owners.

Before committing to adoption, households should carefully assess their environment and budget. Understanding the financial and daily commitment of canine ownership is essential. Prospective adopters are encouraged to review our practical New Puppy Checklist NZ to ensure their home is properly set up. Understanding the ongoing financial commitments is also vital; you can read our comprehensive analysis on the Cost of Owning a Dog in New Zealand to help plan your household budget.

If you are preparing to bring a greyhound home, we also recommend checking local council bylaws regarding leash rules and public off-leash exercise zones. In many parts of the country, registration deadlines occur in July, so staying up to date with animal management requirements is crucial. For any health or behavioural queries during your pet's transition, always consult a registered veterinarian to obtain professional diagnostic advice and support.

Sources

• https://www.spca.nz/news-and-events/news-article/greyhound-racing-to-formally-end
• https://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2025/0208/latest/whole.html