Two Greyhounds Tragically Killed Following A Race At Addington Raceway In New Zealand

It is with a heavy heart that we share the tragic news of the deaths of two greyhounds, Jovita and Palawa Queen, following a race at Addington Raceway in New Zealand on May 16th. Both animals suffered catastrophic fractures and were euthanized as a result. 

SAFE’s Head of Investigations, Will Appelbe, said it is beyond comprehension that greyhounds continue to suffer and die on New Zealand racing tracks, despite overwhelming public support for a ban.

A recent independent poll commissioned by the SPCA showed that a staggering 74% of New Zealanders would vote in favor of banning greyhound racing if it were put to a referendum.

“The previous Government had ample opportunity to act, and we’re still seeing the consequences of inaction,” said Appelbe. “This process has dragged on for far too long. It’s deeply frustrating that greyhounds continue to experience such extreme suffering despite our repeated calls for change.”

In the last decade, there have been three reviews into greyhound racing, all recommending substantial changes.

“Given the overwhelming support for a ban, we expected a final decision on the future of greyhound racing last year, but it was delayed until after the election,” continued Appelbe.

It has been 988 days since the greyhound racing industry was placed formally on notice by the previous administration for consistently failing to improve animal welfare standards. There have since been 2506 injuries, 266 fractures, and 24 deaths. The continued operation of this industry is indefensible.

During the final 1News Leaders’ debate, both Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins agreed that greyhound racing should be banned. The Prime Minister reiterated his position in March of this year.

“It’s deeply frustrating that greyhounds continue to experience such extreme suffering considering how long we have been highlighting this,” said Appelbe. “For New Zealand to truly advance in animal welfare, a comprehensive ban on greyhound racing is not just preferable-it is essential. We urge the Prime Minister to step up and ban this industry, once and for all.”

Please take action by urging the Prime Minister, Minister for Racing, and Associate Minister of Agriculture (Animal Welfare) to ban greyhound racing for good, HERE!