Government accused of betraying Kiwis' trust over lack of consultation on live exports

Animal welfare groups and those who oppose the reinstatement of live exports by sea say the government is bypassing promised public consultation.

The government has always vowed to reinstate the trade which was banned by the previous Labour government.

In June Associate Minister of Agriculture Andrew Hoggard said his officials were preparing a discussion document that would be released to the public before September.

"Public consultation will seek feedback on what changes are necessary to the Animal Welfare Act, how to achieve high animal welfare standards throughout the export process, and how to protect New Zealand's reputation as a responsible exporter and international trade obligations."

That never happened and now minister Hoggard said the government will introduce legislation changes to reinstate the trade.

He said the public will have the opportunity to have its say when a bill is considered by select committee next year.

Animal welfare group SAFE said the government has betrayed public trust.

"The government is backtracking on promises of transparency by rushing this legislation through without proper public consultation," SAFE chief executive Debra Ashton said.

"The government's move to reinstate live exports is an affront to New Zealanders' values. This trade is irredeemably cruel, and no regulatory tweaks can ever make it humane."

Ashton said the public had made itself clear through surveys and petitions that it did not want the trade reinstated.

"The government appears more focused on expediting this horrific trade than listening to the voices of New Zealanders.

"The decision-making process has shifted suddenly and without explanation. This lack of clarity and accountability undermines public trust in the policymaking process, raising serious concerns about whether due process is being followed."

Hoggard's office has been approached for comment.