"I have also asked my officials to see how we can improve welfare for animals used in rodeos."
She acknowledged public concern, but said rodeos were popular in many communities.
The Ikaroa-Rawhiti Maori electorate MP grew up on the East Coast of the North Island and said rodeos were common there — she had attended several herself.
Rodeos operate under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and relevant codes of welfare.
NAWAC also issued a code of welfare for rodeos in 2014, which prevents the use of pyrotechnic displays and sheep riding at rodeos, and sets standards for animal handling and equipment.
A veterinarian and animal welfare officer also have to be present at every rodeo.
Ms Whaitiri said the use of electric prodders, including at rodeos, was already addressed in the animal welfare regulations she was considering.
Tail twisting is not permitted under the Animal Welfare Act and people who break an animal's tail can be prosecuted.
The code says animals have to be handled in ways that minimise the risk of pain, injury or distress, and only fit and well animals may be used.
"I have asked NAWAC to fast track further advice on rodeos this year. In the meantime, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) continues to enforce current animal welfare requirements, and investigates any complaints against rodeos."
The decision comes two weeks after the Waikato Rodeo in Kihikihi, where more than 100 protesters stood outside the gates calling the Government to ban rodeos.
Waikato Rodeo club president Stewart Pederson is delighted at the news of no ban and welcomes any government inquiry.
"We're open about what we do and how we do it," he says. "Rodeos have always been a very important part of rural New Zealand."
He says the decision not to ban rodeos is a "common sense view".
"Common sense is what we need in New Zealand — I'm glad to see the people leading our country have common sense."
He says plans for next year's rodeo are underway and hopes the event will be "bigger and brighter than ever".
