The first day of 2019 will see anti-rodeo protesters demonstrating outside the Warkworth Rodeo. They will have 'tombstone' placards with RIP written on them.

Protest organisers are feeling angry and frustrated after a bull died at Gisborne Rodeo last week.

The bulls death is the second death this rodeo season but the third this year. A bull died at Martinborough Rodeo in March this year and a horse died at Methven Rodeo in October.

Direct Animal Action spokesperson Apollo Taito says the group has had enough of needless deaths at rodeos.

“The continuous animal deaths at rodeos makes it clear that the rodeo cowboys attempts at self regulating are not working and its actually farcicle."

“The Labour Party made a pre-election promise to ban the worst aspects of rodeo; tail twisting, rope-burning, flank-straps, the use of animals under 12 months and electric shocking."

“We're appealing directly to Prime Minister Ardern; your Party must follow through on its pre-election promises. It's the only way to stop these needless deaths," says Mr Taito.

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