Nine To Noon The live animal export trade backdown
Mar 15, 2026
John Hellstrom, retired veterinarian and former chair of the National Animal Welfare Advisory, led a 57,000-signature push against resuming live animal exports. He recounts how the petition shifted political support and describes attempts to define a supposed "gold standard." He also highlights poor record-keeping, problematic trial voyages, and why viable export markets may no longer exist.
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Petition Shifted Political Momentum Against Reversal
- Public opposition shifted political support and helped make reinstating live exports politically unviable.
- John Hellstrom's 57,000-signature petition surprised National and coincided with quiet handling in committees, reducing momentum for reversal.
Gold Standard Was Labeled A Smokescreen
- The so-called gold standard for live export welfare was effectively judged infeasible by politicians and campaigners.
- Hellstrom calls it a 'smokescreen' that might slightly improve conditions but cannot remove the fundamental mental distress of sea voyages.
Markets Dried Up And Cattle Were Unsuited
- Export purpose and market demand had narrowed and shifted, weakening commercial rationale for live exports.
- China demand has collapsed and target markets like Indonesia and Vietnam suit different cattle types, making NZ dairy cattle unsuitable.