H5N1 Bird Flu Information

Situation Update: 24 July 2026

New Zealand has 2 confirmed detections of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu).

There have been no further detections of H5 bird flu since 17 July 2026. There is no evidence of any mass mortality in wildlife, and there has been no detection in poultry.

Chicken and eggs remain safe to eat, and bird flu is a very low risk to human health.

New Zealand is well prepared to respond quickly to H5 bird flu. Response and surveillance work continues to step up in close coordination with industry partners and other agencies.

What can people do?

If you spot three or more sick or dead wild birds in a group:

• Report sightings immediately to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 or online at report.mpi.govt.nz
• Provide as much detail as possible
• Do NOT handle or move the birds
• Keep children, dogs and other pets away from dead or sick birds.

Useful resources:

• How to report suspected bird flu
• Guidance for dealing with sick or dead birds during an HPAI H5N1 outbreak
• Bird flu and protecting your birds – advice for bird owners
• Food safety advice during bird flu outbreaks
• Avian influenza and commercial poultry
• Bird flu information for farmers
• Bird flu information for rural professionals
• Guidance for general practice veterinarians on HPAI
• Avian influenza information for game bird hunters

For more information visit: mpi.govt.nz/bird-flu or Bird flu