Animal rights advocates say the government's announcement on greyhound racing is "the best christmas present ever." 

Racing Minister Winston Peters announced the ban, with the legislation passed under urgency yesterday. 

The racing dogs will not be allowed to be euthanised and will have to be rehomed. 

The SPCA's Chief Scientific Officer welcomed the move.

"We're absolutely thrilled that [Winston Peters] made this very challenging but right decision".

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