What is Bird Flu?
Bird flu, known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or H5 bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds, although it can occasionally spread to mammals. The overall risk to human health remains low.
Since 2020, H5 bird flu has circulated globally, affecting a range of wild bird species, wildlife, and poultry. The virus is known to spread through migratory birds and can be transmitted via infected birds' faeces, saliva, and nasal secretions.
New Zealand recorded its first confirmed case on Wednesday 15 July 2026 in a wild seabird in the Wellington region, and since then two more cases have been confirmed. The situation is being closely monitored by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and partner agencies, with a high level of alert and readiness.
What does it mean to Marlborough
There are currently no confirmed bird flu cases in Marlborough.
Marlborough’s environment is home to native birds and marine mammals, making vigilance essential to protecting our region.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), Health New Zealand and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are leading the national response. Marlborough District Council is supporting the regional response by working alongside, local iwi, Marlborough Roads, local DOC staff, Toitū Te Whenua - Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), Health New Zealand and local MPI staff to ensure regional preparedness.
Response plans have been developed, and procedures are in place to support the community by providing accurate information and guidance when necessary. These operational plans will commence when bird flu is confirmed in Marlborough, and we will keep our community informed as the situation develops.
Advice for Marlborough Residence
The risk to public health is low; however, vigilance is necessary.
If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds together, report them to MPI’s Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
Follow best practices:
- Report three or more sick or dead birds to MPI’s hotline
- Do not touch, move or handle sick or dead birds
- Keep children and pets away from affected birds
- Avoid areas where multiple sick or dead birds are present
- Follow any directions from MPI, DOC, Health New Zealand or local authorities if response activities are underway
Advice for protecting backyard chickens and pet birds
- Watch for signs of illness in your chickens
- Keep your chickens separated from wild birds as much as possible
- Keep enclosures bird-proof and protect feed and water from contamination by wild birds
- Maintain high hygiene standards
For more information go to a YouTube video created by MPI
