While the risk of transmission of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, from birds to cattle or other livestock is low, it’s important you stay alert and maintain good biosecurity practices.
High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, is a significant disease affecting birds.
The H5N1 strain has been detected in New Zealand, following detections in Antarctica and Australia. Overseas, this strain has caused widespread losses among wild birds and farmed poultry. It can also occasionally cause disease in mammals, including the notable recent example of transmission among dairy cows in the United States.
In the US, there have been no reported cases of HPAI in beef cattle.
Latest update (August 2026)
Biosecurity New Zealand has confirmed H5N1 avian influenza in New Zealand after it was detected in a migratory seabird found in Wellington. This is New Zealand’s first detection of this strain of the virus. There is currently no evidence of mass wildlife mortality, widespread transmission among wild birds in New Zealand, or infection in poultry.
HPAI and the risk to New Zealand livestock
HPAI is not normally a disease of sheep or cattle.
MPI assesses the risk of transmission from birds to cattle or other livestock in New Zealand as very low.
One reason for this is that our farming practices are different from the United States.
However, we recommend remaining alert, maintaining good biosecurity practices and monitoring the health of your livestock.
What actions can farmers take?
Although the risk to livestock remains very low, and the immediate concern is for poultry and native birdlife, farmers can help by reducing contact between birds and other animals, protecting feed and water sources, and reporting unusual illness or mortality in wildlife.
For more information about HPAI and the steps you can take to protect your animals, please see the MPI website for more information.
What is B+LNZ’s role?
Biosecurity New Zealand is leading New Zealand’s response, supported by the Department of Conservation (DOC), the Ministry of Health (MoH) and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.
B+LNZ is working with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and industry partners to monitor HPAI developments, understand any changes in risk for farmers, and support clear, practical guidance for the sector.
Reporting bird flu
If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds in a group:
- avoid contact
- record what you see, and
- report it to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 from anywhere in New Zealand. You can also report online here.