Calling for a Commissioner for Animals in Aotearoa New Zealand

To strengthen the voice of animals, we've joined SAFE’s call for a Commissioner for Animals along with key national stakeholders; the New Zealand Animal Law Association (NZALA), Helping You Help Animals (HUHA) and the New Zealand Anti-vivisection Society (NZAVS).

Animal welfare is currently regulated by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) - the same Government body responsible for improving agricultural productivity. This is a clear conflict of interest. Decisions on animal welfare policy are being driven by industry stakeholders with a vested interest in profiting from the use of animals.

Other industries such as racing and rodeo are allowed to monitor their own animal welfare standards with little external oversight.

SAFE’S CEO Debra Ashton said a Commissioner for Animals will provide independent oversight, advice and accountability for animal welfare in Aotearoa.

"The current system is designed to benefit those who profit from the use of animals. Animals need independent representation that will defend their legal rights and ensure they have a voice under Aotearoa's Animal Welfare Act 1999."

SAFE’s petition calling for a Commissioner for Animals in Aotearoa has attained more than 7,000 signatures since its launch on 3 May 2022. The petition highlights the need for an independent voice for animals at the highest level and is supported by animal groups across the country.

Decisions on animal welfare policy are being driven by industry stakeholders with a vested interest in profiting from the use of animals.