SAFE launches campaign to end factory farming in New Zealand

The animal advocacy group SAFE has launched a national campaign and petition aimed at ending factory farming in New Zealand. The initiative seeks an independent review of the country’s animal welfare legislative framework to implement reforms that would phase out intensive farming systems.

According to the campaign, at least 128 million land animals are subjected to factory farming in New Zealand annually. These systems are described as restricting movement, limiting essential behaviors, and exposing animals to chronic stress, disease, and injury. Many animals are also selectively bred for rapid growth, which can negatively impact their health.

Research commissioned by SAFE in 2025 indicates significant public concern, with 78% of New Zealanders worried about factory farm animal welfare and 72% opposing the confinement of animals in such systems. Campaign Manager Emma Brodie stated that the campaign aims to bring the scale of factory farming into public view to turn concern into meaningful legislative change.