Opinion: Why banning pig farrowing crates is a backwards step 18 Feb, 2021 12:15 AM 6 minutes to read Sow in a farrowing crate. Photo / NZ Pork The Country Opinion: Taranaki pig farmer Karl Stanley explains why he is frustrated with the Government's decision to phase out the traditional use of farrowing crate and mating stall systems in the pork industry. Last year, the future was looking bright. Our family-run pig farm in Taranaki was a finalist in the Ballance Farm Environment regional awards for Taranaki. We were also investing almost $1 million in new indoor farrowing systems – essentially maternity wards for sows - to ensure the welfare of our piglets and future-proof our business for generations to come.