Greyhound racing in New Zealand has been brought to an end after legislation passed its third and final reading in Parliament with overwhelming support.

Racing Minister Winston Peters said the Racing Industry Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry Amendment Bill passed by 112 votes to 11, describing it as a clear signal from both Parliament and the public.

“This action wasn’t taken lightly, but independent reviews in 2013, 2017 and 2021 provided clear evidence of serious animal welfare concerns.”

“While improvements were made, those gains plateaued and injury death rates remained unacceptably high to the point the sport had lost its social licence. Action had to be taken.”

Peters said the decision aligned with a broader international shift, with greyhound racing now operating in only a small number of countries. He said jurisdictions including Scotland, Wales and Tasmania had also signalled plans to end the sport.

The legislation allows for the creation of a transition agency to oversee the closure of the industry and the rehoming of dogs.

“The passing of this Bill enables the establishment of a transition agency to oversee the wind down of racing and the rehoming of dogs, and we are now moving into the formal setup phase.”

The agency will be led by members of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on greyhound racing, including Heather Simpson as chairperson, alongside Murray Johnson and Dr Lindsay Burton, with a fourth member yet to be appointed.

Support measures will include assistance for greyhound owners to care for dogs awaiting rehoming, expanded partnerships with adoption agencies, job transition support for workers through the Ministry of Social Development, and mental health services for those affected.

Peters rejected claims the industry would be left without support.

“There has been a great deal of misinformation suggesting that people and dogs are being abandoned. That is simply wrong.”

“This Bill underpins a structured transition, with funding, agencies, and support mechanisms in place. We are not walking away from our responsibilities we are meeting them head on.”

The ban on greyhound racing will take effect from 1 August 2026, allowing time for an orderly transition.

“This is a good day for greyhounds.”

“It’s a rare moment when Parliament speaks with such a strong majority, principled voice. Those moments matter, and this is one of them.”