What we're doing to protect our native species
Protecting our native birds and other native species is a key focus of our preparedness work for the possibility of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), particularly the H5N1 strain, coming to New Zealand.
HPAI H5N1 has caused high numbers of deaths in wild birds overseas, including shorebirds and seabirds. It can also spill over to mammals, including marine mammals and, in a small number of cases, humans.
New Zealand has never had a case of HPAI. The likelihood of the introduction of HPAI H5N1 through human introduction on pathways that we manage is low. As information emerges about the distribution of the disease in Antarctica, there will be a better understanding about the likelihood of it reaching New Zealand through wild bird movements.
We have strong systems in place to ensure early detection if HPAI does arrive.
Biosecurity New Zealand and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are undertaking preparedness work, including detection surveillance and monitoring around New Zealand and in the sub-Antarctic area.
Vaccine trial to protect threatened species
It is not possible to vaccinate all our endangered birds, but DOC is focusing on threatened species that are reliant on captive breeding or intensive management for species survival. In these cases, vaccination might be an effective tool in preventing extinction.
As part of preparedness work, DOC is doing a safety and efficacy trial on small numbers of 5 native bird species using Poulvac Flufend, a vaccine that can protect against HPAI.
MPI approved the vaccine trial, which is being conducted by DOC veterinarians under strictly controlled conditions. The vaccine being trialled contains inactivated (dead) virus, meaning it can't cause infections with avian influenza.
Antibody levels in the vaccinated birds' blood are monitored to assess whether the vaccine provides protection for these species. The health of the birds prior to and following the vaccination is monitored to assess the safety of the vaccine in these species.
The species involved in the trial are kakī (black stilt), takahē, kākāpō, tūturuatu (shore plover) and the red-crowned kākāriki (as a surrogate species for kākāriki karaka/orange-fronted kākāriki).
Other work to prepare for HPAI
We continuously reassess the threat of HPAI H5N1 arriving here, monitor international developments, and are working with a range of partners to prepare, should HPAI be detected here.
We are part of networks that actively monitor the spread of the H5N1 strain globally and we're talking regularly with colleagues in other countries so we can learn as much as possible about how the disease is behaving as it spreads, and effective responses. As partners in the Antarctic Treaty Area, we have a good network of information exchange with other treaty signatories. We also have a network of information exchange with countries that have had to deal with this strain of HPAI.
What if I find sick or dead birds?
The most obvious sign of HPAI is sudden death in several birds. Other signs can include weakness, tremors, paralysis, difficulty breathing, lack of co-ordination, blindness, trembling, and diarrhoea.
If you see 3 or more sick or dead birds in a group, report it immediately to Biosecurity New Zealand's Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Do not handle the birds.
Provide as much detail to Biosecurity New Zealand as you can, including:
- a GPS reading or other precise location information,
- photographs and/or videos of sick and dead birds,
- species identity and estimate of numbers affected,
- note how many are sick or freshly dead, and the total number present.
Biosecurity New Zealand will take details and an incursion investigator will be in contact with you. Follow Biosecurity New Zealand's instructions for handling of sick or dead birds.
Report avian influenza [PDF, 738 KB]
Find out more about avian influenza in wildlife
Avian influenza – World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
Avian influenza and other wildlife diseases – Department of Conservation (DOC)
