H5N1 or bird flu
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
What you need to know
H5 bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza) is a highly contagious viral disease mainly affecting wild and domestic birds. The risk to human health is considered low.
Biosecurity New Zealand and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) are leading New Zealand's response and monitoring activities.
Check out the MPI website for the most up to date information.
What to do
Be alert and use good habits to limit the impact of bird flu.
Keep your distance: Stay away from sick or dead wildlife. Keep pets away too.
Keep clean: Wash your hands and clean your gear after being outdoors.
Know when to report: If you see three or more sick or dead birds, report it to MPI on 0800 80 99 66.
Provide as much information as possible, including:
- a GPS reading or other precise location information
- photographs and videos of sick and dead birds
- how many are sick or freshly dead, and the total number of birds present
- Common name of affected bird/s.
- Do not handle or move the birds.
Guidance for dealing with sick birds or birds suspected to have died from disease is on the MPI website
Local disposal advice per district, for birds suspected to have died from disease
* Reminder: Reports of three or more recently sick or dead birds need to be reported through the MPI hotline 0800 80 99 66
Buller District | Grey District | Westland District | |
Household rubbish & public litter bins | * awaiting confirmation *0800 807 239 | * awaiting confirmation 03 769 8600 | *awaiting confirmation 0800 474 834 |
Transfer stations | * awaiting confirmation 0800 807 239 | *awaiting confirmation 03 769 8600 | *awaiting confirmation 0800 474 834 |
Landfill | *awaiting confirmation 0800 807 239 | *awaiting confirmation 03 769 8600 | *awaiting confirmation 0800 474 834 |
Onsite burial 1-3 birds | Bury at least 60 cm deep and cover completely. Do not bury birds in a plastic bag. Avoid burying birds near natural water sources or where they could contaminate local water supplies. | ||
Onsite burial 3+ birds | Offal pits are an option for larger quantities of birds if landowners can meet rule 73 conditions in the land and water plan. Rule 73 Solid waste and offal pits | ||
