Protesters to challenge Warkworth Rodeo

What: ‘Ban Rodeo’ protest at Warkworth Rodeo

When: Monday 1st January 2018, 11am

Where: Warkworth A&P Showgrounds, State Highway 1, Warkworth

The first day of 2018 will see anti-rodeo protesters demonstrating outside the Warkworth Rodeo.

The group Direct Animal Action will hold large ‘STOP’ signs at the entrance of the event, calling on the new Government to stop rodeo by banning it in New Zealand.

“Every year, public outcry against rodeo increases. While the last government refused to act, we’re optimistic that our new Government will ban rodeo for good,” says Apollo Taito spokesperson for Direct Animal Action.

“New Zealand is meant to be a world leader in animal welfare, but we’re falling short. People have had enough of the shocking footage that emerges each rodeo season of animals abused and distressed in the arena.

“Our Animal Welfare Act calls for animals to be handled in a way that minimises pain and distress. But rodeo by its very nature, goes against this and actually shames us as a nation.

“We’re already seeing a strong shift away from rodeo within communities with many sponsors dropping the event. Kiwi icons, the Lions Club New Zealand are among the most recent sponsors to drop rodeo and we absolutely congratulate them for taking such a strong stand.

“Now we need our new Government to take action. On behalf of the majority of New Zealanders who support a ban, we’re calling on the Government to stop rodeo cruelty now,” says Mr. Taito

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