The Green Party has welcomed the government’s decision to halt plans to reinstate live animal exports. Animal Welfare Minister Andrew Hoggard stated he was unable to secure Cabinet support for overturning the existing ban, a commitment initially made within coalition agreements with both ACT and NZ First.
Government Backtracks on Live Export Plans
Green Party spokesperson Steve Abel characterized the news as a victory for animal welfare, the public, and advocacy groups. He noted significant opposition to the proposal from the outset, citing concerns from veterinary experts regarding the impossibility of maintaining animal welfare standards during long-distance sea transport. According to Abel, “It’s fundamentally cruel and there’s no way to uphold the barest animal standards while exporting at sea.”
The decision comes after a period of uncertainty. Hoggard had previously expressed a desire to overturn the ban by 2025, and in April 2025, indicated legislation was expected to reach Cabinet within months, though a backlog in the Parliamentary Counsel Office caused delays. Despite this, parliamentary questions revealed Hoggard had received no further advice on the plan since mid-2025.
Livestock Exports NZ remained hopeful the ban would be overturned as recently as last month, but Abel suggested the “handbrake had been pulled” at the Cabinet level due to public opposition. The Ministry for Primary Industries had initiated an independent review of live exports in 2020 following the sinking of the Gulf Livestock 1, which resulted in the deaths of 41 crew members and nearly 6000 cattle.
Previous Ban and National Party Opposition
The previous government passed a bill banning live exports in 2022, effective April 2023. At the time, National’s animal welfare spokesperson Nicola Grigg described the ban as “disproportionate and ideological.” The National Party had campaigned on overturning the ban, proposing a system with stricter regulations, including purpose-built ships and importer certification.
An RNZ investigation in 2024 revealed that Livestock Export New Zealand had allocated $1 million towards dismantling the ban, including funds for lobbying, public relations, and establishing what they termed a “gold standard” for animal welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Green Party’s reaction to the news?
The Green Party welcomed the news, calling it a win for animals, the public, and groups campaigning against the move.
Why did the government backtrack on its plans?
Animal Welfare Minister Andrew Hoggard stated he could not gain Cabinet agreement on overturning the ban.
What happened with the Gulf Livestock 1?
The Gulf Livestock 1, carrying nearly 6000 cattle, sank off the coast of Japan in 2020, resulting in the deaths of 41 crew members and nearly 6000 cattle.
What factors will ultimately shape New Zealand’s agricultural policies and trade practices in the years to come?
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