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The Great Global Greyhound Walk 2026.
Hundreds of greyhounds and their owners took to streets, parks and pubs across New Zealand on Sunday 27 September to raise awareness of the breed and support the nationwide adoption drive.
Difficult weather across much of the country didn't keep the greyhounds or people away, with 18 walks going ahead from Whangārei to Dunedin, and a small number cancelled or postponed for safety reasons.
The Great Global Greyhound Walk is an annual international event held on the same day each year. It brings greyhounds, their owners and supporters together in countries around the world. Walks in New Zealand went ahead from Whangārei to Dunedin, with a small number cancelled or postponed for safety reasons.
This year's global theme was Mythical Mutts, and the greyhounds took it seriously. Dragons, unicorns, fairies and mermaids turned out alongside their humans, raincoats and all.
Greyhound Transition Agency Chief Executive Christine Bennett said the turnout in these conditions said a lot about the following that greyhounds have and New Zealanders' support for the rehoming mission.
"The response from communities around the country was outstanding. Interest has been enormous since racing ended, and to have this many people turn out in weather like this is a very special moment for greyhounds in New Zealand."
Following the end of greyhound racing, 1,249 greyhounds began the transition from racing to life as pets.
"We're looking forward to seeing greyhounds continue to find their forever homes over the coming months, as more become ready to be matched with their new families," Bennett said.
Bennett said neither the walks nor the rehoming mission would be possible without the adoption agencies, greyhound groups and volunteers across the country.
"There are so many amazing people out there doing incredible work for greyhounds. A huge thank you to every organiser, walker and greyhound who made the day happen."
Missed out?
Some walks have been postponed until next weekend. Keep an eye out HERE for updates.
Got questions? Find answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
It's a personal, one-on-one process – and our trusted adoption agencies are wonderful at it. They know these animals best and they know how to set both you and your new greyhound up for success.
Every greyhound is individually assessed and matched, and the same goes for those who want to adopt. While the exact criteria vary by agency, you can generally expect:
You can also have a trial period with the greyhound in your home before making a commitment. Get in touch with one of our trusted adoption agencies to find out more.
There are many greyhounds looking for homes right now – you can reach out to one of our trusted adoption agencies.
Adoption fees vary by adoption agency. In general, they cover health checks, vaccinations, desexing, dental work, council registration and essential accessories.
That’s a question for your landlord, as pet policies vary and you’ll need their permission before adopting. The good news is that greyhounds are often an easy case to make – they’re calm, quiet, clean, and gentle in the home, and many landlords are open to them once they learn more about the breed.
Foster carers work with adoption agencies to provide a temporary home while a greyhound transitions to pet life – building their confidence, teaching them the ropes of domestic living, and making them even more ready for their forever home.
To find out about fostering opportunities in your area, get in touch with one of our trusted adoption agencies.
