New Zealand to stop exporting livestock by sea

Exports will be phased out over two years as government says decision will uphold country's high standards of animal welfare'

New Zealand will cease the export of livestock by sea following a transition period of up to two years, agriculture minister Damien O'Connor has said.

At the heart of our decision is upholding New Zealand's reputation for high standards of animal welfare. We must stay ahead of the curve in a world where animal welfare is under increasing scrutiny," O'Connor said on Wednesday.