In brief
When New Zealand’s greyhound‑racing ban took effect Saturday, a flurry of movement began: chartered flights carrying up to 150 dogs are heading to Australia’s eastern states. Trainers, kennel owners and even some bettors are scrambling to make the transition, while the teams in Australia’re preparing to welcome and screen the Aussie‑bound canines. The story spotlights the legal loophole that lets greyhounds be shipped, how the finances are being handled, and the larger context of an industry that once had a market worth billions. It also touches on the international debate over animal welfare and the challenges of re‑homing retired racing dogs.
Greyhound trains—now on flight path—head to Australia
At least two chartered flights carrying up to 150 greyhounds are set to fly to Australia’s eastern states, as a New Zealand ban on the sport comes into effect.
Trainers in New Zealand are moving their dogs to Australia, planning to continue racing. The ban, announced in December 2024 and legislated in April, will mean roughly 1,400 greyhounds retire in New Zealand and need new homes.
Australian authorities classify incoming greyhounds as “companion animals”, subjecting them to disease screening (e.g., rabies) before entry.
New Zealand Minister Winston Peters called the relocation “last gasp actions of a dying industry”, stressing the loss of a social licence after repeated reviews highlighted high injury rates. Green‑party senator Mehreen Faruqi said she was “deeply concerned about loopholes” that allow the export of racing dogs to Australia.
The Greyhound Transition Agency—organising the industry shutdown—confirms being aware of the transport but says it can’t comment further on arrangements.
Australia’s bid for a new desert is mixed: the sport is legal in most states, but the Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania plan to phase it out. Scotland and Wales have already outlawed commercial dog racing this year.
Industry figures say the move could be a one‑off but also warn that re‑homing retired racing dogs remains a challenge; 4,100 retired greyhounds in NSW already lack permanent homes.
Impact for the betting community
Kiwis can still bet on Australian greyhound races, which together accounted for almost A$2bn in 2022‑23—much larger markets than New Zealand’s $147m.
What’s next?
- Arrival of more greyhounds via charter flights in the coming weeks.
- Australian regulators confirming bio‑security details and vetting procedures.
- Debate over animal welfare continues as the industry looks to set up new standards.
