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H5N1 Bird flu
Information about H5N1 Bird flu and what you need to know to keep yourself safe.
Overview
QLDC is preparing for the arrival of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza H5N1 (HPAI or bird flu) in Otago.
H5N1 bird flu is a seasonal, contagious virus that predominantly affects wild and domesticated birds. The latest H5N1 strain emerged in 2020 and spread rapidly to all continents except Oceania.
The strain has caused significant mortality in wild birds, poultry and some mammals in other countries.
On June 15, 2026, New Zealand confirmed its first case of the bird flu virus. The virus was detected in a brown skua found on Petone Beach in Wellington.
Officials say there is no evidence it has spread beyond a single wild seabird, but are urging the public to report sick or dead birds while they monitor for any further detections. The virus is likely to spread among wild birds and will not be able to be eradicated.
Health risks remain low
There are currently no confirmed human cases of H5N1 in New Zealand.
Infection in humans generally requires close contact with infected birds or other infected animals. H5N1 bird flu is very unlikely to transmit from human to human. However, viruses can change over time, so it’s important to be vigilant around sick or dead birds.
There is no food safety risk from H5N1, and the risk to human health is assessed as low. Avian influenza viruses are sensitive to heat treatment so chicken, other poultry (like turkey or duck), and eggs remain safe to eat when handled and cooked correctly
Find out more information about H5N1 bird flu and the work New Zealand is doing to prepare below.
Advice for poultry farmers and bird owners
Poultry farmers and backyard bird owners are being urged to strengthen on-farm biosecurity now.
For their own health, people who work with livestock, poultry, or with animals in a vet or zoo are recommended to have a seasonal flu vaccination. Although this does not protect specifically against avian influenza, it reduces the risk of dual infection with both avian and human influenza and these two viruses combining to form a new and more highly infectious virus.
Key steps include:
Preventing contact between domestic birds and wild birds
Monitoring birds closely for signs of illness
Cleaning boots, equipment, surfaces and hands regularly
Seeking veterinary advice if you have any concerns.
Detailed guidance is available through MPI for both commercial poultry operations and small-scale or backyard bird owners
Public urged to report sick or dead wild birds, fur seals or sea lions in a group
People who spend time outdoors, including trampers, duck hunters and bird watchers, also play a critical role in early detection.
We are asking the public to:
Keep a safe distance from sick or dead wildlife. If you’re near the coast, this includes fur seals or sea lions in a group.
Avoid handling or moving birds
Clean gear and equipment after outdoor activities
Anyone who sees three or more sick or dead wild birds in a group should report it immediately to the Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66