The government says those involved with rodeos needed to have animal welfare "at the forefront of their minds at all times". Rodeos will not be banned in New Zealand because the minister responsible for animal welfare does not believe they are harmful enough. Rodeos operate under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and relevant codes of welfare. Whaitiri said the use of electric prodders, including at rodeos, was already addressed in the animal welfare regulations she was considering. In the meantime, the Ministry for Primary Industries continues to enforce current animal welfare requirements, and investigates any complaints against rodeos."

Source: Otago Daily Times March 01, 2018 02:14 UTC