An animal welfare group is condemning the export of 7200 live cattle to China next week from Timaru's port and wants the practice to be banned.
SAFE executive director Hans Kriek said the 17-day trip will be highly stressful for the animals and rough weather can lead to broken bones and other injuries.
But Primary Industries Minister David Carter said the animals will be constantly monitored by vets and stockmen and the ship has to carry extra feed in case it is delayed.
Mr Carter said the Animal Welfare Act is being reviewed and it will soon be even harder to export live animals.