Greyhounds bound for Australia as New Zealand racing ban takes effect - BBC News

At least two chartered flights carrying up to 150 greyhounds are set to fly to Australia's eastern states, the BBC understands.

Image source, Phil Walter/Getty ImagesImage caption, New Zealand has outlawed greyhound racing, but neighbouring Australia has not

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.

Several greyhound trainers in New Zealand are responding to a new ban by moving their dogs to Australia with plans to continue in the sport, governing body Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) told the BBC.

While the ban across New Zealand takes effect on Saturday, the practice remains legal almost everywhere in Australia.

The ban was first announced in December 2024, and legislated in April. Approximately 1,400 greyhounds will retire in New Zealand under the ban and require rehoming.