The Government has sought feedback on changes that would make it easier for people to buy an animal from a local farmer and get it processed sooner.
Under current rules, people can already buy a live animal. But before it can be processed by a homekill provider listed with MPI, the buyer has to show they actively cared for it for 28 days.
Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard said these rules haven’t been looked at in 20 years.
“The way we live, farm and share food has changed, and the rules need to catch up. This is about removing rules that no longer make sense. Homekill can currently only be eaten by the animal owner, their family or household, and farm employees,” said Hoggard.
“With the cost of living still biting, people are looking at what else is on offer. Buying an animal from a local farmer means the farmer sets the price, and while I can’t promise it will be cheaper, it could well be.”
The consultation also proposed labelling homekill and hunted meat, so people know it has not gone through the same checks as meat sold in shops, particularly if restrictions on who can eat it are relaxed.
There are no proposed changes to requirements for providers, or to the ban on selling homekill or recreationally hunted meat. Where a slaughter or processing provider is used, that provider must still be listed with the Ministry for Primary Industries.
The consultation also covers whether recreational hunters can share hunted meat more widely.
“We have heard the current rules are vague, and that uncertainty is putting people off donating hunted meat to foodbanks and charities.”
Hoggard said that hunters want to give meat to their local foodbank, but many are not sure whether they are allowed to.
“Meat is the most asked-for item at foodbanks and the most expensive to provide. We should not have unclear rules getting in the way of that,” he added.
“I encourage farmers, hunters, processors and Kiwis who value local food to have their say. This is a chance to shape practical rules that support local food, not hold it back.”
Consultation runs until the 5th of October 2026.
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