New Zealand’s response to the recent detection of H5 bird flu remains in full swing, with Biosecurity New Zealand continuing extensive surveillance despite no further confirmed cases and no evidence of widespread illness among wild birds.
Dr Mary van Andel, the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Chief Veterinary Officer, is leading the national response, overseeing surveillance, public reporting and efforts to protect both native wildlife and the country’s poultry industry.
Since the initial detection, Biosecurity New Zealand has reported no additional confirmed cases of H5 avian influenza and no signs of mass mortality among wild bird populations.
While officials say this is an encouraging development, surveillance remains at a heightened level as experts work to determine whether the virus was an isolated event or whether further cases could emerge through migratory birds or local wildlife.
The absence of widespread bird deaths suggests there is currently no evidence of extensive transmission within New Zealand’s wild bird populations, although authorities stress the situation continues to be monitored closely.
Biosecurity teams remain active across Wellington and the Wairarapa, where the initial response has been concentrated.
Field teams are carrying out inspections of wild bird populations, collecting samples from sick or dead birds, undertaking laboratory testing and working alongside wildlife experts, veterinarians and conservation agencies to monitor any changes in disease activity.
Officials are paying particular attention to unusual bird deaths, neurological symptoms in wild birds and any signs that the virus may be spreading to additional species or locations.
The poultry industry also remains under increased surveillance to ensure commercial flocks remain free of infection.
Biosecurity New Zealand says public reporting has been one of the most valuable tools in responding to the detection.
Members of the public are being encouraged to report sick, injured or dead wild birds, particularly where several birds are found together or where unusual behaviour is observed.
Authorities advise people not to handle sick or dead birds unless necessary and to follow biosecurity guidance when reporting suspected cases.
Prompt reporting allows veterinarians to investigate quickly, collect samples where appropriate and determine whether further action is required.
Although the current risk remains low, Biosecurity New Zealand says comprehensive plans are already in place should H5 bird flu be detected in poultry or spread more widely among wild birds.
Preparedness measures include ongoing surveillance, laboratory testing capacity, movement controls where required, disease tracing, close engagement with the poultry industry and coordination across multiple government agencies.
The response also includes contingency planning to minimise impacts on commercial poultry production, protect native bird species and reduce the risk of transmission between wildlife and domestic flocks.
For Māori, protecting indigenous bird species holds particular cultural significance. Many native birds are regarded as taonga species with deep whakapapa connections, making biosecurity an important part of wider kaitiakitanga responsibilities.
Officials say continued vigilance, strong public reporting and robust surveillance remain the best defence against any future spread of H5 avian influenza as New Zealand works to protect both its unique wildlife and food production systems.
