Millions of New Zealanders reject farrowing crates – have your say by 23 October!
Independently commissioned research has revealed that an overwhelming majority of New Zealanders oppose the Government's proposal to extend the use of farrowing crates until 2035.
SPCA is encouraging people to make a submission before consultation closes in just two days - on 23 October 2025.
A Horizon research survey shows that three-quarters of New Zealanders (75 percent or 2.88 million adults) believe farrowing crates should be phased out immediately or within five years.
When presented with the Government's proposal to continue the use of farrowing crates until 2035, and then allow temporary crating after that, a mere 16 per cent of New Zealanders agreed.
Farrowing crates are metal enclosures used on indoor pig farms to confine mother pigs for several days before and weeks after giving birth. The crates severely restrict movement. Mother pigs (sows) can stand and lie down but cannot turn around or move freely. This prevents natural maternal behaviours such as nest-building and bonding with piglets.
“The survey results send a clear message to this Government,” says SPCA Chief Scientific Officer Dr Arnja Dale.
"New Zealanders have spoken, they do not support weak animal welfare protections that are being delayed by 10 years.
"Eighty-eight per cent of New Zealanders have concerns about the use of farrowing crates, the main concerns being the sow's inability to move freely or turn around and the overall quality of life of the sow and piglets. The Government needs to listen to the voice of the public."
The survey also showed strong support for welfare friendly solutions. An overwhelming 77 percent of New Zealanders (2.93 million adults) support the use of free farrowing pens, with 74 percent (2.85 million adults) who believe free farrowing pens should replace farrowing crates.
Free farrowing pens, already used successfully in countries like Switzerland, Sweden, and Finland, allow sows to move freely, build nests, and interact naturally with their piglets while incorporating design features to reduce piglet mortality.
SPCA is urging all New Zealanders to submit feedback on the Government's proposal before the 23 October deadline.
The results of the Horizon research survey can be read online.
Image credit: Jo-Anne McArthur - Essere Animali - We Animals
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The SPCA New Zealand Team