WELLINGTON, July 23 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand will end greyhound racing by July 31, 2026, with the government prioritizing animal welfare and support for affected industry members.
An interim report released on Tuesday outlined plans to rehome around 1,500 greyhounds expected to remain when racing ends.
The Ministerial Advisory Committee, which drafted the report, has been established to guide the phase-out of greyhound racing in New Zealand, said Racing Minister Winston Peters.
The committee is collaborating with industry, welfare groups, and agencies to plan a practical transition, Peters said.
Cabinet will review the committee's recommendations, with legislation to follow public consultation. If passed, New Zealand will be among the few countries to ban greyhound racing on animal welfare grounds. ■
