Protecting the welfare of New Zealand horses.
Equine Welfare in New Zealand.
There are several documents that prescribe and outline welfare standards for equids in New Zealand. These are set and regulated by advisory committees within the Ministry for Primary Industries. Organisations operating within the New Zealand equine industry have outlined standards that align with national welfare standards in relation to activities carried out in their respective disciplines.
Code of Welfare: Horses and Donkeys
The purpose of this Code is to provide information to the owners and persons in charge of horses and donkeys about the standards they must achieve in order to meet their obligations under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.
Animal Welfare Act 1999
This act pertains to the welfare of all animals in New Zealand and is the guiding document to the Code of Welfare: Horses and Donkeys.
MPI Guide to Animal Welfare Regulations
The Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018 cover a range of animals and situations, such as farm husbandry, companion animals, stock transport, and surgical procedures. Check the regulations and the Ministry for Primary Industries guidance to make sure you're complying with these laws.
Horse Transportation Welfare Guidelines
The Animal Welfare Committee plays a leading role in promoting the overall welfare of the Thoroughbred horse however the transportation of Thoroughbreds is a specific period of risk that requires special attention by the industry.
NAWAC Equines Code
This code sets minimum standards that represent society’s expectation of standards of care that are based on good practice and scientific knowledge. The code also includes recommendations for best practice to encourage standards of care over and above the minimum.
Welfare of Horses Exported from NZ
New Zealand Equine Health Association’s Position Statement on the Welfare of Horses Exported from New Zealand
Harness Racing NZ - Animal Welfare
Our mission is to work with the racing industry (trainers, breeders, and owners) rehoming groups, government organisations and welfare groups to enable the care of the Standardbred horses to exceed the current animal welfare standards.
Thoroughbred Welfare
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s vision for thoroughbred welfare: “A thoroughbred should be provided a good life, with the care and conditions that will allow the horse to thrive and perform to its natural abilities."
New Zealand Equine Veterinary Association
The New Zealand Equine Veterinary Association branch of the NZVA works to provide leadership and promote excellence in regard to the health and welfare of all New Zealand horses. Follow the link below to find out more.
