The last live export sailing has been met with mixed reactions after a government ban came into effect at the end of April.
The bill to ban live exports was introduced over concerns about animal welfare issues during long sea voyages, mainly to China.
It gave farmers two years to transition away from the live export market.
Animal rights activists held celebrations at several towns around the country, including Timaru, on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the National Party plans to reintroduce live exports with new animal welfare rules including purpose-built ships, should it win this year’s election.
Mid Canterbury dairy farmer Phil Everest said there was a place for the well-managed export of breeding stock.
Some developing countries needed to improve their stock and New Zealand had surplus good breeding stock, he said.
“It’s a good use of livestock – as long as it is controlled.”
The current ban on exports would reduce the income for farmers who reared extra heifers for export. It could also affect the local selection and breeding choices.
Everest said he supported National’s proposal to reintroduce live exports of cattle.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said the government ban was introduced to protect New Zealand’s reputation for ethical trade.
“Recent talk of restarting live exports by sea simply ignores the reality that our consumers overseas take issues of sustainability, climate and animal welfare seriously.”
An animal welfare focus was part of a plan to protect future export growth and was in-step with likeminded partners, he said.
“Australia has moved to phase out live export of sheep, and animal welfare standards are bedded into our free trade agreements with the UK and the EU.
“This Government is committed to ensuring our farmers stay at the forefront of sustainable and ethical trade and that every part of our food production system upholds high standards of animal welfare,” O’Connor said.

• By Sharon Davis