We’re building a future beyond animal testing
Beyond Animal Research (BAR) is rallying scientists, advocates, and supporters across Aotearoa to push science forward without harming animals.
We work to replace the harmful use of animals with ethical science and proven alternatives, advancing innovation that protects both animals and human health.
Discover how we work, why it matters, and how you can help create a cruelty-free future. Together, we’re accelerating the shift to science that is not only more humane, but more effective for people, too.
If you believe science should move forward without harming animals, you are already part of this movement.
The problem we can no longer ignore
Every year in Aotearoa New Zealand, around 250,000 animals bred or used for science are killed and discarded in the name of research, testing and teaching. Animal experimentation continues not because it’s the best science, but because outdated systems make change difficult.
Most New Zealanders would never choose this. Yet the system continues.
This isn’t because scientists don’t care. It’s because systems are slow to change. And meaningful reform requires coordinated effort.
Change happens when people decide the current system is no longer aceptable. And right now, that moment is here.
How we work
Breaking down the barriers to change
Ending animal experimentation requires more than good intentions. It requires a coordinated, evidence-led strategy. At BAR, we identify and remove the scientific, institutional, cultural, financial, and regulatory barriers that keep animal testing embedded in research systems.
Together with scientists
Identify the barriers
We analyse the barriers to the uptake of alternatives to animal testing in New Zealand, from funding gaps to regulatory inertia.
Remove the barriers
Through advocacy, collaboration, education, and policy engagement, we work to replace outdated models with modern, human-relevant science.
This is a system change not symbolism
Learn more about how we remove the barriers to change.
Why it matters
Ending animal testing isn’t about stopping science. It’s about improving it
Science can thrive without harming animals
Animal testing is often unreliable for predicting human outcomes. It can waste time and money and delay safer treatments. Meanwhile, many animals experience confinement, invasive procedures, and death.
But there is a better way. From advanced cell-based models to organ-on-a-chip technologies and AI-driven computer simulations, ethical science is accelerating faster and more accurate discoveries without animal harm.
Replacing animal experimentation isn’t just an ethical decision.
It’s smarter science. It’s better medicine. And New Zealand has the capability to lead this transition globally. When we invest in alternatives, we create a cruelty-free research future that benefits animals, people, and innovation.
Animals used or bred for science in NZ are killed each year
International scientific advisors
Researchers and stakeholders engaged
Focused on ending the harmful use of animals science
Who we are
The science alliance for animals
BAR is guided by internationally respected experts in science, ethics, and animal welfare. Our advisory panel ensures our advocacy is grounded in evidence and impact.
Tara Jackson
Co-Founder
Elaine McNee
Co-Founder
Professor Bart Ellenbroek
Neuroscientist, Victoria University of Wellington, NZ
Dr Jodi Salinsky
Veterinarian, University of Auckland, NZ
Dr. Cindy Buckmaster
Director of Operations, Washington National Biomedical Research Center, USA
Dr Sally Thompson-Iritan
Regulatory Specialist and 3Rs Scientist, University of Washington, USA
Dr Jim Webster
Animal Welfare and Ethics Consultant, EthicoNZ, NZ
What is animal testing?
Animal testing refers to procedures carried out on animals to try and evaluate the safety, effectiveness or quality of substances, products, and medical treatments.
These procedures can involve pain, distress, lasting harm, or death.
How you can join the movement
Your voice accelerates change
Change happens when people decide the current system is no longer acceptable.
Together, we can take science beyond the harmful use of animals.
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Discover
Explore the science, policy, and solutions driving the transition beyond animal testing.