National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) was established under the Animal Welfare Act to provide independent advice to the Government minister responsible for animal welfare.

NAWAC's role in animal welfare

NAWAC gives the Government minister responsible for animal welfare advice on:

  • The welfare of animals in New Zealand
  • Animal welfare research needs
  • Legislative proposals
  • Codes of welfare
  • Regulations
  • Traps and devices
  • Hunting and killing animals in a wild state.

Section 57 of the Animal Welfare Act 1999 lists all of NAWAC’s functions.

Animal Welfare Act 1999 - New Zealand Legislation

NAWAC's work programme

NAWAC prioritises its work to make the most of its limited resources while improving animal welfare in New Zealand. NAWAC uses a framework to decide which animal welfare issues to address first. The committee updates its work programme every year.