The greyhound racing industry is warning of widespread uncertainty as the Government moves to shut the sport down by 1 August, saying there is still no clear plan for compensation or for re homing hundreds of dogs.
Legislation to end greyhound racing was passed in Parliament on Thursday, triggering a four month countdown before the final race. More than a thousand people are expected to be affected.
Industry representatives say while a Government run transition group has been announced, major questions remain unanswered — particularly around financial support for workers and clubs forced to close.
John Roberts from the Auckland Greyhound Racing Club said those impacted were entitled to compensation after the industry was closed by law.
"The Minister of Racing has failed to give us any clear direction on compensation whatsoever," he said.
"The reality is his Government has closed the industry down. Our people are entitled to compensation."
The transition group would focus on supporting owners while dogs wait for new homes, as well as providing retraining and mental health support for affected workers.
However, the Government has confirmed no extra compensation is planned beyond covering the cost of caring for the animals.
Racing Minister Winston Peters says the plan will also increase capacity for re homing organisations to boost adoption rates. But the industry estimates around 1700 greyhounds will still need new homes when the ban begins — a process expected to take time.
Michelle Stebbing from the May Hounds Re homing Group said adoption could not be rushed.
"We just don't have a big enough population and too many dogs as it is," she said.
"We want to make sure we re home to responsible owners who understand the commitment. You just can't really put a time on it."
The SPCA, which was not formally part of the transition group, says it wants to help speed up re homing efforts. The organisation said capacity can be scaled up, particularly during large adoption campaigns.
The ban followed growing welfare concerns, after 16 greyhounds died or were euthanised due to racing injuries last season — the highest number since the industry was put under review in 2021.
Despite assurances from Winston Peters that those affected will not be left without support, some industry leaders say the timeframe leaves little room to plan.
Christchurch Greyhound Racing Club chief executive Sarah Clausen says workers are facing major financial uncertainty.
"I have a mortgage to pay, I have children to feed, and I have no idea what will come on the 1st of August," she said.
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