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The Holstein Friesian heifers are being transported from the Port of Timaru in New Zealand, the NZ Farmer reported.
The heifers will be transported to Fonterra farms in China. They are being carried on the world’s largest livestock carrier, the Ocean Drover.
Half the animals are expected to be loaded in Timaru and the other half in Napier port in New Zealand and while the ship docked in Timaru port at 3:30pm on Tuesday it is due to depart Napier at 10am Wednesday morning.
Animal welfare
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in the country outlined the transport of animals are subject to strict animal welfare conditions and obtaining an Animal Welfare Export Certificate (AWEC) from MPI, which certifies that the animals are fit and healthy for transport.
MPI director of animal and animal products Paul Dansted outlined that this is the number one priority.
“Once all of the animals are loaded, an MPI veterinarian inspects them to ensure they are fit for travel. If all animal welfare requirements are met, an AWEC certificate will be issued,“ he said.
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