Feds legislation tightening penalties around the crime will be introduced in the new Parliament.
"Sadly a pregnant ewe caught in a gin-trap on Cornwall Park shows the lengths rustlers will go to," says Rick Powdrell, Federated Farmers rural security spokesperson.
"This is a daily reality for many on-farm but rams home to those in Auckland the magnitude of what our guys have to deal with. As we're on the cusp of main lambing I was shocked that they had targeted pregnant ewes but they probably do not care.
"The current law offers no deterrent. We've seen sob stories being rewarded with community service and a few dollars in reparations. This doesn't reflect the gravity of the crime or the likely suffering of an animal being slaughtered by a rank amateur.
"It is also bloody dangerous and stupid. At this time of the year a fair number of livestock are receiving animal remedies, as such, they are under a withholding period and until it clears their system should not be eaten. Anyone rustling will not have a clue so rustling is not easy meat.
"We have been in talks with politicians and there seems to be increasing support to stiffen penalties for rustling.
"In the meantime, farmers can provide information anonymously through the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. In addition to online tools like 'Stop Stock Theft,' farmers need to work together to report crimes and record suspicious behaviour," Powdrell says.
