SPCA welcomes Green Party animal welfare commitments

"Animals matter to New Zealanders, and we welcome any commitment that helps create a more compassionate future for them," says SPCA Senior Scientific Officer Marie McAninch.

"For political parties, animal welfare is one of those rare issues where there’s broad agreement: animals should be protected from unreasonable and unnecessary harm, and the Government has a role to play in setting standards to make sure that happens.”

"We are pleased to see the Green Party recognising the importance of animal welfare and committing to policies that align with many of SPCA's long standing advocacy priorities."

SPCA is particularly encouraged by their policies to:

• Phase out farrowing crates
• Support farmers by requiring imported animal products to meet New Zealand’s animal welfare standards
• Properly resource the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee
• Protect wildlife and marine ecosystems, including through expanding the use of on-board cameras on fishing boats

"A Horizon research survey shows that three-quarters of New Zealanders believe farrowing crates should be phased out immediately or within five years. These are important issues that affect the lives of thousands of animals across New Zealand and reflect areas where voters consistently call for stronger protections," says Marie McAninch.

“We’re encouraged to see the Green Party supporting farmers to move towards more sustainable practices through proposing that imported animal products meet our animal welfare standards. Consumers should be able to have confidence that the products they buy here aren’t undermining the welfare standards we expect from farmers in New Zealand.”

“We also welcome the commitment to properly resource the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee and strengthen our animal welfare standards in codes of welfare. Too many of our codes of welfare are out of date or missing standards - particularly for dogs, cats and rabbits - and no longer reflect what New Zealanders expect when it comes to animal welfare.”

"Regardless of which party forms the next Government, SPCA will continue to advocate for evidence-based policies that improve the lives of animals and reflect community expectations around their care and protection."

SPCA is a politically neutral organisation and works constructively with all political parties to advance animal welfare outcomes. Read more about SPCA's policy recommendations on our advocacy site.

"We look forward to continuing to engage with all parties throughout the election period and beyond to ensure animal welfare remains an important part of New Zealand's policy agenda."