Bull Breaks Through Fence, Causes Stir at New Zealand Rodeo
KAITAIA, New Zealand — A dramatic moment unfolded at the Far North Rodeo in Kaitaia on January 5, 2026, when a 1,700-pound bull named Thunder broke through a fence, sending spectators into a brief panic. The incident was captured on video by a spectator and shared widely on social media, including a TikTok post by @far_north_kaitaia, showing the bull charging through a weak spot in the enclosure.
Quinton King, president of the Far North Rodeo Club, described the bull’s behavior as non-threatening despite the chaos. “He just wanted to get away. He wasn’t running towards people as such, he was trying to run away,” King told the New Zealand Herald. Witnesses saw Thunder retreat to the back of the venue, seeking shelter under a tree to avoid the crowd.
Brendon Mikkelsen, a spokesman for New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries, confirmed that the bull was safely recaptured without injuries to humans or animals. “We are not aware of it coming into contact with any member of the public at the rodeo,” Mikkelsen said. Rodeo staff led Thunder from a parking lot into a nearby paddock after the animal had briefly escaped onto a public street.
The incident highlights the inherent risks in rodeo events, where large animals can sometimes behave unpredictably. Rodeo organizers and local authorities maintain strict safety protocols to protect both participants and spectators. The Ministry for Primary Industries oversees animal welfare standards at such events to ensure humane treatment and public safety.
Similar incidents involving escaped animals have occurred worldwide, prompting ongoing discussions about safety measures at public events. For example, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service provides guidelines for managing large livestock in public settings.
Despite the scare, the Far North Rodeo proceeded without further incident, and Thunder’s escape has become a talking point among rodeo fans and animal enthusiasts alike. Videos of the event serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of working with powerful animals and the importance of preparedness.
For more information on rodeo safety and animal welfare regulations, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Ministry for Primary Industries websites. The rodeo community continues to balance tradition with safety to ensure events remain enjoyable and secure for all involved.
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