75% back quick end to farrowing crate use

A Horizon research survey shows that three-quarters of New Zealanders (75 percent or equivalent to around 2.88 million adults) believe the use of farrowing crates by pig farmers 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, only 16 per cent 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 was commissioned by the SPCA.

“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.”

Support for alternatives

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 (pictured), 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.

Notes:

• The Horizon Research surveyed 1,044 adults, weighted to match the New Zealand adult population, between 10 and 16 October 2025. New Zealand adults. Adult population figures based on New Zealand’s adult population of approximately 3.85 million.
• Results also covered the strong agreement for government support being provided to pig farmers, respondents’ intention to purchase higher-welfare pork, and a very low level of awareness of the proposed changes overall. Detailed results can be provided on request.
• In 2020, the High Court ruled the use of farrowing crates unlawful under the Animal Welfare Act 1999. Regulations permitting their use were due to expire on 18 December 2025.
• However, on 1 October 2025, Animal Welfare Minister Andrew Hoggard proposed a ten-year extension, allowing farrowing crates until the end of 2035, and the introduction of “temporary farrowing crates” thereafter. Temporary crates would still confine mother pigs for three days before and four days after birth.
• Around half (approximately 44 farms) of New Zealand’s pig farms use indoor systems with farrowing crates, while the other half operate outdoor systems where sows and piglets have access to huts in paddocks.