Biosecurity New Zealand says there have been no further detections of H5 bird flu following the country’s second confirmed case, as surveillance and monitoring continue across parts of the lower North Island.
Officials have spent the weekend carrying out checks along Wellington’s south coast and throughout parts of the Wairarapa as part of the ongoing response to the highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak.
Authorities say there is currently no evidence of mass deaths among wild birds, and no cases have been detected in New Zealand’s poultry population.
The Ministry for Primary Industries says it continues to receive strong support from the public, with reports of sick or dead birds helping biosecurity teams assess potential risks. Every notification is reviewed, with suspected cases triaged to determine whether further investigation is required.
Biosecurity New Zealand is urging the public to remain vigilant. Anyone who discovers three or more sick or dead wild birds together is being asked to report the sighting immediately through the Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66 or online via the Ministry for Primary Industries reporting website.
People are also being reminded not to handle, move or dispose of sick or dead birds themselves, as this could increase the risk of disease spread or personal exposure.
The latest update follows increased surveillance after H5 bird flu was detected in wild birds, prompting a coordinated national response involving biosecurity officials, wildlife experts and public health agencies.
While the overall risk to the general public remains low, authorities say early reporting and continued vigilance remain critical to protecting New Zealand’s native bird populations, commercial poultry sector and wider biosecurity system.
Further updates will be provided as surveillance continues.
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