16/07/2026
BIRD FLU DETECTED
New Zealanders are being asked to be alert after an ocean-going seabird, a brown skua, returned a confirmed positive test for H5 bird flu in Wellington.
Although there is low risk to human health, it poses a high risk to our native wildlife - especially birds and seals.
How much risk? Overseas, this bird flu has caused mass mortalities of birds and of seals - in some populations >90% mortality.
What you can do?
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.
One of MPI’s specialist biosecurity investigators will assess the information and advise you – don’t handle or move the birds.
Provide as much detail as you can, including:
a GPS reading or other precise location information
photographs and/or videos of sick and dead birds
species name and estimate of the numbers affected
how many are sick or freshly dead, and the total number of birds present.
If you own birds – including chickens, ducks, show birds or pets – you can take steps now to protect them with good biosecurity and hygiene practices.
For more info on H5 bird flu and how you can help keep our wildlife safe, visit: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/pest-and-disease-threats-to-new-zealand/animal-disease-threats-to-new-zealand/high-pathogenicity-avian-influenza/about-avian-influenza-and-the-risk-to-nz
