Inquiries by the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) into illegal horse castration in the Hawke’s Bay and the wider East Coast areas of the country have unearthed some concerning findings. Unqualified people have allegedly been found carrying out this procedure not only for their own horses, but as part of business enterprises.

"Horse castration is regarded as a significant surgical procedure and can only be carried out by a veterinarian or a veterinary undergraduate under the direct supervision of a veterinarian," says MPI Wellington/Taranaki District Compliance Manager Mike Green.

"It appears to be a practice that is well ingrained in the culture of the farming and rural community of the wider East Coast area with this service being utilized by many large station owners despite them knowing it to be illegal," says Green.

Penalties for offenses in this area under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 carry a maximum fine of $50,000 or 12 months imprisonment