Australia H5N1 detection

25 June 2026

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard issued a press release over the weekend about New Zealand’s preparedness to respond to bird flu, following its detection in Australia.  

High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a serious disease affecting birds, with high mortality rates and significant biosecurity implications.

Australian authorities confirmed the discovery of the H5N1 2.3.4.4b strain of HPAI in a migratory seabird found in Western Australia. This strain has caused large numbers of deaths in wild birds, poultry, and some mammals overseas.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with Australian authorities. Strong biosecurity and early detection measures will be key to managing any impacts.

This is a timely reminder that it takes all of us to be prepared for the arrival of unpredictable viruses. If HPAI does arrive in New Zealand, there will be no food safety risk and the risk to human health is assessed as low. There are also strict existing measures in place to prevent HPAI from entering the country through imported poultry or egg products.

However, if it becomes widespread in the wild bird population, it cannot be eradicated from wild birds and they cannot be prevented from continuing to spread the virus.

MPI has a range of resources on its website about HPAI, and how different people and groups can prepare in case it arrives here. These include:

• Guidance for general practice veterinarians on HPAI

• Guidance for rural professionals

• Guidance for dealing with sick or dead birds during an HPAI H5N1 outbreak (advice for wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facilities)

• Information for farmers

• Information for bird owners

• Information for people spending time outdoors

• How to report suspected bird flu

The Vet Council has also worked with MPI to publish guidance for veterinarians managing sick or dead wild birds presented to them by members of the public.

One of the most noticeable signs of bird flu is the swift death of multiple birds in a group. If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66.

More information about H5N1 bird flu and the work New Zealand is doing to prepare for it is available at mpi.govt.nz/HPAI