Save Animals from Exploitation (SAFE) is "deeply frustrated" that two rodeo events will take place in the Far North this summer, despite widespread calls for a national ban.
The Far North Rodeo is in Kaitaia on January 2, and the Ōruru Valley Rodeo at Ōruru the following day.
SAFE's head of campaigns, Marianne Macdonald, says rodeo participants abused animals in the name of 'entertainment'.
"The horses and cattle made to perform in rodeo events are tame, and normally docile animals, often riled up to give an aggressive display before being forced into the ring. Vulnerable young calves are particularly mistreated in the so-called 'rope and tie' (calf roping) events," she said.
"In calf roping, calves are chased down by bullies on horseback, wrenched off their feet and thrown to the ground, only to be left immobile and distressed after having their legs tied together. To be pursued in this way is frightening for any animal, especially a baby."