People who leave distressed dogs in hot cars can now be hit with a $300 fine.
Photo: 123 RF
That's one of a raft of new regulations which Cabinet ministers have approved to strengthen the animal welfare system.
Associate Minister of Agriculture Meka Whaitiri said they introduced penalties for lower level offences which may not warrant prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act.
The new rules also allow people to be fined where farm animals are injured while being transported to slaughter plants.
Ms Whaitiri said the regulations would have a significant effect on the treatment of animals.
They were developed over three years working with industry and advocacy groups.