- Keep yourself, children, and pets away
- Do not touch the birds or the area around them
- Observe from a safe distance (at least a few metres away)
- Don't let pets investigate or play with the birds
Avian Influenza (bird flu)
Know when to report: If you see three or more sick or dead birds, do not touch them. Report it to MPI on 0800 809 966
Avian influenza (also called bird flu) is a contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild birds and is caused by avian influenza viruses.
We have been preparing for the arrival of Avian Influenza H5N1 (bird flu) to the Bay of Plenty region for some time. Visit the MPI website for the latest information on detections of bird flu in New Zealand
H5 Bird Flu – What You Need to Know
Key facts:
- As of 15 July, the first case of bird flu was detected in New Zealand. It is also in Australia. Here in the Bay of Plenty we are monitoring the situation and following the lead of Biosecurity New Zealand (Ministry for Primary Industries).
- H5 bird flu is a viral disease that primarily affects birds, but can affect marine mammals, companion animals and livestock.
- Overseas, some mammals, including cattle and sea lions have been infected after contact with infected birds. In rare cases, cats and dogs can get sick if they eat or interact with infected animals so to help protect your pets it is advised to keep them away from wild birds.
- The risk to human health is considered low. In countries where the current H5N1 strain of bird flu is present human infection has generally only occurred in people who have had a lot of contact with infected birds or other infected animals.
- If you see three or more dead or sick birds in one place, do not touch them. Report immediately to MPI's Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline: 0800 80 99 66.
Understanding Bird flu
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects wild and domestic birds. It spreads easily between birds, especially those that gather in groups.
Reporting sick or dead birds
What to look out for
The most obvious sign of bird flu in wild birds is several sick or dead birds. If you see sick or dead birds, especially waterbirds or seabirds, watch for the following signs:
- Uncoordinated movement (walking or swimming in circles)
- Tremors or twisted necks
- Inability to stand or fly
- Difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing
- Swelling around the head, neck and eyes
- Cloudy or discoloured eyes
- Sudden or unexplained deaths
What to do if you find three or more sick or dead birds. Don't touch them.
- Note where you saw them (park name, street address,GPS coordinates or landmark)
- Write down the date and time
- Write down how many birds you saw
- Name the species or describe the type of bird if you can (colour, size)
- Take photos from a distance if you can do so safely
Call the MPI Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline: 0800 80 99 66 24 hours, 7 days a week. Or report online
Tell them:
- What you saw and where
- How many birds
- When you saw them