Frequently asked questions about laws and regulations for farm animal management and care in New Zealand
The Agricultural Compassion Society has prepared a list of answers to some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about laws and regulations for farm animal management and care in New Zealand.
1. What are the main laws that regulate how animals must be treated on farms in New Zealand?
The Animal Welfare Act 1999 is the primary legislation governing the welfare of animals in New Zealand. The Act provides a framework for promoting animal welfare and preventing or minimising animal suffering. The Act also establishes the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC), which advises the Government on animal welfare matters.
2. What are the key requirements of the Animal Welfare Act?
The key requirements of the Animal Welfare Act are that:
– Animals must be treated humanely
– Animals must be provided with the necessities of life, including food, water, shelter and veterinary care
– Animals must not be subjected to unreasonable or unnecessary pain or suffering
3. Are there any other laws that apply to farm animals?
Yes, there are a number of other laws that apply to farm animals, including the:
– Biosecurity Act 1993
– Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992
– Resource Management Act 1991
– Animal Products Act 1999
4. What are the main requirements of the Biosecurity Act?
The Biosecurity Act requires all farms to be registered with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). Farms must also have a Biosecurity Plan in place, which sets out how biosecurity risks will be managed.
5. What are the main requirements of the Health and Safety in Employment Act?
The Health and Safety in Employment Act requires all farms to have a Health and Safety Plan in place. The Plan must identify potential hazards on the farm and set out how these hazards will be managed.
6. What are the main requirements of the Resource Management Act?
The Resource Management Act requires all farms to have an Environmental Management Plan in place. The Plan must identify the farm’s environmental impacts and set out how these impacts will be managed.
7. What are the main requirements of the Animal Products Act?
The Animal Products Act requires all farms to be registered with MPI and to have an Animal Products Plan in place. The Plan must set out how the farm will produce safe and suitable animal products.
8. What are the penalties for breaching the Animal Welfare Act?
The penalties for breaching the Animal Welfare Act vary depending on the severity of the breach. For example, a farmer who fails to provide adequate food and water to their animals could be fined up to $100,000.
9. Are there any other penalties that apply to farms?
Yes, there are a number of other penalties that apply to farms, including the:
– Biosecurity Act 1993
– Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992
– Resource Management Act 1991
– Animal Products Act 1999
10. Where can I get more information about the laws that apply to farms?
More information about the laws that apply to farms can be found on the Ministry for Primary Industries website (www.mpi.govt.nz).
