Update – 15 April 2026
Summary of submissions released
Thank you to those who sent in a submission for this consultation that closed on 2 November 2025.
We have now prepared a summary of submissions. It takes into account the submissions and feedback received during this consultation.
Summary of submissions [PDF, 527 KB]
During policy development, we also considered requiring registration of proposed avian biosecurity control programmes. We conducted targeted consultation with industry groups (the Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand and the Egg Producers Federation of New Zealand) and turkey and duck meat producers in March 2026.
We will update this page further when decisions are made.
Background information about avian influenza and this consultation
There are various strains of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI). The strain that is the subject of this consultation is HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b.
If this virus arrives in New Zealand and becomes widespread in wild birds, it's unlikely we'll be able to eradicate it. That is why we need to take a long-term management approach.
The proposals outlined in this consultation would empower the poultry industry to effectively and sustainably support the management of HPAI H5N1 in the long term.
Why we consulted
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) sought your feedback on 6 proposals for developing regulations to manage HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in poultry. The proposals focus on commercial poultry, but some proposals might affect other poultry owners.
Submissions opened on 17 September and closed at 11:59pm on 2 November 2025.
The 6 proposals
- Commercial poultry operators would be required to develop an avian biosecurity control programme to ensure they can sustainably manage HPAI H5N1 if it appears on their farm.
- All poultry operators/owners must meet appropriate biosecurity standards. This proposal would also apply to semi-commercial poultry operators and non-commercial poultry owners (including pet poultry birds), if regulations specify a method (or methods) for disposing of dead birds that could be required to be used.
- Commercial poultry operators must keep appropriate records and provide information to MPI when required.
- Avian biosecurity control programmes must be audited.
- Regulations provide for appropriate offences and penalties.
- Costs of auditing are at least partially recovered from commercial poultry operators.
Further details on each of the proposals are available in the discussion document. We have also prepared a summary of the discussion document and more detailed analysis in an interim regulatory impact statement.
