John Hellstrom
Retired veterinarian and former chair of the National Animal Welfare Advisory, noted for leading a large petition and advocacy against resuming live animal exports from New Zealand.
Best podcasts with John Hellstrom
Ranked by the Snipd community
Mar 15, 2026 • 16min
The live animal export trade backdown
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.
