Issue 16, 30 June 2026
The Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand (PIANZ) and the Egg Producers Federation (EPF) have joined with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to provide farmers with this update about our preparations for high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1.
H5N1 bird flu detection in Australia
As of 30 June, Australia has four confirmed detections of H5 bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza clade 2.3.4.4b) in wild birds. There are three confirmed in Western Australia (WA) and one in South Australia (SA).
Western Australia has also reported a further suspect positive detection, in a giant petrel, with samples sent for confirmatory testing.
This is the serious, wildlife adapted bird flu strain that has been circulating globally.
Australian authorities say there are no detections in poultry or evidence of spread to local wildlife or large-scale deaths in any animals.
More information about H5 bird flu in Australia is available here from their Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is watching the situation closely and remains in close contact with Australian authorities.
On Saturday, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard issued a press release about New Zealand’s preparedness to respond should bird flu reach our shores: New Zealand prepared and watching as bird flu detected in Australia.
PIANZ and EPF Executive Director, Fiona MacMillan, says detection of H5 bird flu in Australia is a timely reminder for everyone that this disease is highly likely to arrive in New Zealand at some point.
“We know that migratory birds are a likely source of bird flu. While we can’t prevent wild birds bringing this virus here, we can work together to limit its impact. The key message is stay watchful and be extra vigilant for signs of illness in your birds.
“Many of our larger poultry producers are already well prepared, having been aware of the risks for many years. For anyone requiring additional support, that is available via organisations such as PIANZ, EPF and MPI. Broiler producers should start by approaching the poultry company they supply. Egg producers are welcome to approach EPF. Support is available from EPF, PIANZ and MPI. MPI’s On Farm Support is also available to help with biosecurity plans.”
Check the industry website <birdflu.pianz.org.nz> to find out how to build your plan.
Don’t let bird flu take flight – MPI bird flu awareness campaign
The detection of H5 bird flu in wild birds in Australia is a timely reminder that it takes all of us to be prepared for the arrival of a virus we can’t control the spread of.
That’s why MPI is informing key audiences about measures they can take to be ready for bird flu.
MPI’s ‘Don’t let bird flu take flight’ awareness campaign targets pet birds and poultry owners, as well as people heading outdoors such as duck hunters, trampers and bird watchers. These are key groups that can act now in ways that will make a difference if bird flu arrives here.
Backyard bird owners are being encouraged to take steps now to protect their birds. Advice to bird owners includes three key actions:
- Watch: Look for signs of illness in your birds and contact your vet if concerned.
- Separate: Prevent contact between your birds and wild birds.
- Scrub: Clean your boots, gear, surfaces and hands often.
This video breaks down some of the best ways to put this advice into action: Preparing for bird flu – a guide for backyard poultry owners.
The backyard bird owner awareness campaign is currently live online. Earlier in the year you might have noticed adverts on rural radio and in rural supply stores across the motu.
People who spend time outdoors – doing activities such as tramping, duck hunting and bird watching – are being encouraged to form habits to protect wildlife if bird flu arrives here. These are:
- Keep your distance. Stay away from sick or dead wildlife.
- Keep clean. Clean your gear between wildlife spots.
- Know when to report. If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds, marine mammals or other wildlife, report it.
The outdoor campaign is running online and in targeted locations such as wetland and walking track access points, as well as hunting and fishing stores.
Campaign audiences are being encouraged to visit mpi.govt.nz/bird-flu for more information.
Worker Protection if H5 Arrives
Transmission of H5 bird flu from animals to humans is rare and has generally only occurred in people who have had a lot of contact with infected animals (or their faeces or other animal materials) without wearing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). There is no evidence that H5 bird flu can spread easily between humans. However, if H5 bird flu arrives in New Zealand, people who work with birds (and potentially other animals who can be infected), or who are involved with slaughter and disposal of infected animals are at risk.
Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora and the Ministry of Health have been working closely with MPI, DOC and regional councils to prepare for the arrival of H5 bird flu.
Health New Zealand has developed HPAI workplace health and safety guidance for workplace managers and people who work with birds or other animals, outlining how people can protect their health in the context of H5 bird flu.
This guidance includes information on signs and symptoms of avian influenza, how to prepare for avian influenza now, what to do once avian influenza is detected in NZ, recommendations on PPE and other precautions, and what to do if a worker is exposed to H5 bird flu. The recommended precautions that should be taken depend on the level of risk (i.e., if H5 bird flu has been detected locally, or further away, and how closely workers are exposed to animals).
There is no evidence that H5 bird flu can spread easily between humans.
If H5 bird flu is detected in your local area, and you are working with animals that can be infected with HPAI, then appropriate PPE is recommended. Detailed information about requirements and instructions for wearing and removal is provided in the guidance.
Advice for the general public is also available here.
< Check out the new industry WEBSITE for poultry biosecurity >
PIANZ and EPF want to thank MPI for its support making this site possible. Click on the button to go directly to the website.
Contact us:
The Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand (PIANZ) and the Egg Producers Federation (EPF) have joined with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to provide farmers with this update about our preparations for high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1.
If you require further information, please contact:
MPI: [email protected]
PIANZ/EPF: [email protected]
Prepared by: Ministry for Primary Industries, Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand & Egg Producers Federation
