Animal Welfare Overview

The MAF Animal Welfare Group promotes policies appropriate to society's expectations for the humane treatment of animals, and maintains a central position in the ongoing animal welfare debate. It emphasises a consultative approach to animal welfare issues in developing sound, science-based policy and standards.

The group also provides support and advice for the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) and the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC). Working closely together to develop codes of welfare and review codes of ethical conduct, as required by the Animal Welfare Act 1999.

Efforts are also focused on:

• identifying emerging animal welfare issues,
• identifying research priorities,
• liaising with New Zealand and international agencies involved in animal welfare,
• developing a New Zealand position in relation to animal welfare and international trade.

Animal Welfare Investigators look into offences committed or suspected to have been committed under the Animal Welfare Act 1999. They oversee and manage the mitigation of pain and suffering in animals, enforcing the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act. A key part of their work is providing practical advice and assistance to farmers.