Animal rights group SAFE is demanding the Government urgently ban greyhound racing following the death of another dog at Addington Raceway in Christchurch. On Friday, 18 October, a greyhound named What’s On suffered a catastrophic spinal fracture during a race, leading to the dog’s euthanasia.

The incident marked the fourth greyhound fatality of the current racing season, which began on 1 August, and brought the total number of deaths to 30 since the industry was formally put on notice by the previous Labour Government.

SAFE Campaign Manager Emma Brodie said it was time for the Government to intervene, citing the continuous injuries and fatalities within the sport. “It is both deeply upsetting and infuriating to witness injury after injury and death after death. This cycle of suffering must come to an end,” she said.

Brodie added that the greyhound racing industry had failed to demonstrate meaningful change and that the evidence of cruelty was overwhelming. “This industry has shown time and again that it is incapable of change. The evidence of cruelty is undeniable, and the Government can no longer ignore it,” she said.

The Government had said it would decide the future of greyhound racing in New Zealand by the end of 2024. Options under consideration include maintaining the status quo, implementing regulatory changes, or banning the industry outright.

However, SAFE believes a ban is the only humane choice. “We don’t need more reports, more inquiries, or more excuses,” said Brodie. “With every passing day, more dogs suffer and die while this industry remains unchanged. After years of failing to address its cruelty, it’s clear that greyhound racing cannot be reformed. The only compassionate solution is to end it once and for all.”

SAFE is urging immediate government action to implement a comprehensive ban on greyhound racing. “The Minister has all the evidence he needs to make the right decision and ban greyhound racing in Aotearoa,” said Brodie. “What’s On’s tragic death must be the last.”