About 50 people are protesting outside a rodeo at Warkworth, saying animals are being abused and the sport should be banned.
About 50 people have been protesting outside the Warkworth Rodeo. Photo: RNZ / Paloma Mignone
Hundreds of spectators have gathered at the town's A&P showgrounds for the event, which includes bareback and bull riding.
The protesters stood by the entrance holding large heart-shaped signs, and asked locals to boycott the event.
Direct Animal Action spokesperson Amie Wolken said rodeos were cruel and it was time people stopped going to them.
"Rodeos by their nature induce stress in the animals that need to perform, it's a form of entertainment so we don't believe it serves any real purpose to society.
"People can choose other forms of entertainment that teach kids good values and about how to care for animals, and rodeos just don't do that."
Photo: Supplied
The Rodeo Cowboys Association said it took care of the animals and it was not concerned about the protest.
Spokesperson Gary Jackson has said the same people protest each year and yet the fans keep coming back.
Photo: RNZ / Paloma Migone