Aug 11, 2025
The updated Code of Welfare: Deer has been released, the first of the updated livestock codes of welfare to be published. The code will come into effect on 8 September. All those responsible for farming or handling deer – including trophy parks and game estates – should review the changes and familiarise themselves with the updated code.
This is the first substantive update to the code since it was first published in 2007, other than minor amendments in 2018. The updated code reflects advances in animal welfare science, farming systems, management practices and changing public attitudes.
The updated deer code of welfare should not impact most deer farmers, as there have not been any fundamental changes, but DINZ encourages all deer farmers and other relevant industry stakeholders to have a read through.
While there are more than 60 new minimum standards, along with 4 changes to existing minimum standards, most additions and changes are about tightening language and providing greater clarity. Given the high level of animal welfare in the sector, these should not affect current deer systems significantly.
The Code was developed by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC), with feedback provided by DINZ, NZDFA, farmers, vets and transporters, before it was reviewed by deer expert Dr. Geoff Asher and then passed on to Minister Hoggard to sign into effect.
“It is great to see the updated code of welfare for deer get across the line. The understanding of animal welfare is always improving, and much can change in almost twenty years,” says DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths.
“As someone who has come from the markets side of DINZ, it is something we have been hearing for a while now. Our customers want assurances that our animals are farmed ethically and to a high standard that puts welfare at its core. Deer farmers already take great pride in how they treat their animals, but to have this updated code now reflect the continuous improvement of our farmers, which is something consumers are demanding more and more, can only be a good thing.”
“Thanks to Minister Hoggard for pushing this through, to Dr. Matt Stone and his team at NAWAC, to MPI, and to all those who submitted during consultation so that the code is representative for all of industry.”
For more information:
Code of Welfare: Deer – summary of changes >>
The code of welfare for deer is being updated on 8 September 2025 | NZ Government >>
