High Pathogenicity AvianInfluenza (HPAI) is a type of avian influenza that can cause severe signs of illness and possible high mortality rates. Infected birds shed the virus in saliva, nasal secretions and faeces. It has been estimated that one faecal deposit with HPAI could contain enough infective doses to infect up to 10,000 birds.
This new strain is of concern to the Ministry for Primary Industries as it is has evolved to a greater range of host species and is being spread around the world by migratory birds. It has also spread to around 60 species of mammal. When this occurs it is called ‘spillover’ transmission, and is generally the result of contact with infected birds, their droppings or feed and water that has been contaminated by these wild birds.
On 15 July 2026, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard confirmed New Zealand’s first detection of H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) clade 2.3.4.4b. It was found in a brown skua found on Petone Beach, Wellington.
Authorities have advised that:
- The detection is currently limited to a single ocean-going seabird.
- There is no evidence of transmission between wild birds in New Zealand.
- There is no evidence of mass wildlife mortality events.
- There have been no detections in poultry.
- MPI staff have inspected the Petone Beach area and have not identified additional cases.
Minister Hoggard stated:
“This is a coastal detection in an individual ocean-going seabird and there is no evidence of any mass mortality in wildlife or transmission between wild birds in New Zealand. There has been no detection in poultry.”
The Government has emphasized that eggs and poultry products remain safe to eat and that the risk to the general public remains low.
Please remember you can find information on biosecurity measures on the industry biosecurity website: Bird Flu Biosecurity Aotearoa
Key Links
Signs of HPAI to look out for in Layer Flocks:
HPAI Look out for Bird Flu Poster
The most obvious sign is many dead birds within a flock in a short timeframe. Other signs for HPAI in poultry can include:
- lethargy or a reluctance to move,
- reduced appetite,
- droopy head, paralysis, or incoordination (neurological signs),
- darkened or swollen face, comb, or wattle (“cyanosis”) from lack of oxygen,
- coughing, panting, and nasal secretions,
- unexpected drop in egg production,
- bruising or haemorrhages,
- severe diarrhoea,
- a silent or “too quiet” poultry shed.
What to do?
If you see 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to Biosecurity New Zealand’s Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Do not handle the birds!
The Hotline is staffed 24/7. A biosecurity investigator will take your details and an Incursion Investigator will be in touch with you.
Follow any instruction from Biosecurity New Zealand for handling sick or dead birds.
HPAI can only be confirmed through laboratory testing.
For regular biosecurity updates and advice on HPAI visit: www.mpi.govt.nz/HPAI
