Press release for Sunday, 11 March :
Activists Protest National Rodeo Finals
The Animal Justice League NZ was out in force today, to protest the final rodeo event of the season.
“We are here today to send a message that rodeo’s days are numbered. It’s time for us to move on and entertain ourselves
without causing animals to suffer”, said Animal Justice League Spokesperson Holly Button.
Over thirty protesters attended the peaceful demonstration, holding placards and banners calling for the animal abuse of
rodeos to end.
“We are thrilled Green MP Gareth Hughes is here, staying true to a long-time promise to see rodeo banned. Now that the
Labour Party has also promised action on rodeo, it is only a matter of time before these abusive rodeos come to an end”,
said Miss Button.
“The fact that so many everyday New Zealanders stood in the baking hot sun on a dusty roadside for hours speaks to the
strength of feeling and commitment to ban rodeo”, said Green MP Gareth Hughes who travelled from Wellington to attend
the event.
The Animal Justice League is already preparing to oppose rodeo next season, determined to see the cruelty end.
“Rodeo cruelty is going to go, both the science and a majority of Kiwis are on our side. It is only a matter of time
before it gets banned. Supporters of rodeo should start looking for other ways to have fun without hurting animals”,
added Miss Button.
“With this being the Finals for the rodeo season, we are hoping the government accepts the evidence that animals are
suffering in rodeo and makes this the final rodeo season ever”, stated Button.
The government is currently investigating claims of animal abuse in rodeos. The protesters promise that they will keep
the pressure on until the cruelty is over.
ends