The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is seeking public feedback on proposed changes to the Code of Welfare for Rodeos.
NAWAC has reviewed the existing Code and is proposing new minimum standards and recommendations for best practice.
“The draft changes to the Code aim to improve the welfare of cattle and horses used in rodeos across New Zealand,” said NAWAC chair, Dr Matthew Stone.
“Extensive updates are recommended to minimum standards around steer wrestling, roping and tying, selecting and handling animals, facilities and equipment, and stockmanship.
“New minimum standards are proposed for breakaway roping, the training of rodeo animals and animals used to train rodeo participants, and contingency planning.
“NAWAC believes the way the rope and tie and steer wrestling events are practiced increases the risk of injury and distress to cattle and could breach the Animal Welfare Act 1999.
“We’re proposing changes to ensure the Code remains fit for purpose and that rodeos adopt the highest standards of husbandry, care, and handling.”
Dr Stone says public consultation is important to help shape how the events can be modified to meet the purposes of the Act.
“NAWAC’s draft standards for these events would significantly change how they’re carried out in future. If adopted, this might mean organisers choose to withdraw some events from rodeos,” Dr Stone says.
“NAWAC’s approach has been to identify the potential risks to animals’ welfare in each event and describe what we believe needs to change.
“The main proposed change is that cattle used in rope and tie and steer wrestling events must stay standing after being brought to a stop, instead of ending up on the ground.
“We’re also recommending changes to the definition of a rodeo to include events closed to the public. It’s proposed those jackpot events would also require a vet in attendance.”
In addition to seeking views from those directly involved in rodeos and others affected by the changes, NAWAC is encouraging feedback from animal advocates and members of the public.
The rodeo season runs from this month through to March. In the most recent season, Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) animal welfare inspectors attended almost 30 rodeo events.
NAWAC is an independent body, which advises the Government on animal welfare issues. The Code of Welfare for Rodeos was last reviewed in 2014.
Consultation opened today and closes on 9 December.
A copy of the draft Code of Welfare for Rodeos and details on how to make a submission can be found here.
