With voters preparing to head to the polls next month,
animal rights organisation SAFE has launched its 2026
election scorecard, revealing some stark differences between
political parties on some of the country’s most pressing
animal welfare issues.
SAFE’s
scorecard compares parties’ responses across eleven
questions, covering issues from factory farming, farrowing
crates, caged hens, intensive winter grazing, live animal
export, rodeo, food-system reform and independent animal
welfare oversight.
SAFE’s Head of Campaigns Jessica
Chambers says the scorecard is intended to help voters make
informed decisions about where parties stand on animal
issues.
“The next government will make decisions that
affect the lives of millions of animals. This scorecard
gives voters a clear picture of where parties stand on
issues directly impacting animals.”
SAFE says its
scorecard makes it easy for voters to compare which parties
are prepared to strengthen protections for animals, and
which would maintain the status quo. It also provides an
opportunity for voters to engage with parties directly,
raise concerns about animal welfare policies, and encourage
stronger commitments for animals.
“Animals aren’t
able to vote, but voters can make their interests count”
says Chambers.
Following significant setbacks on
animal welfare including preventing the ban on farrowing
crates from taking effect and an attempted reversal of the
live animal export ban, SAFE says the general election gives
voters a chance to have their say on what the future looks
like for animals.
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“We encourage New Zealanders to explore
the scorecard, see where political parties stand, and
let parties know if they expect stronger action for animals.
Positions can change, and elections provide an important
opportunity for voters to influence the policies they want
to see.”
“This scorecard is about transparency. We
want voters to be informed, have conversations with
candidates and parties, and make it clear that animal
protection matters when they head to the polls.”
Note:
SAFE is Aotearoa’s
leading animal rights organisation.We’re creating a
future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our
core work empowers society to make kinder choices for
ourselves, animals and our planet.
Location of
scorecard on SAFE’s website: https://safe.org.nz/news/putting-animals-on-the-agenda-the-2026-election-scorecard/
