Date:  18 July 2026

DOC Deputy Director-General Cat Wilson says the Wairarapa operations teams have been briefed and are ready to support MPI with increased surveillance and reporting.

“Higher alert means staff will be continuing their work as normal but with extra caution and carrying PPE when they're in the field.

“We are getting ready to activate our site response plans should they be needed in the event there is an outbreak of H5 bird flu in native wildlife in this area.

“We’re asking operators and people who are out on public conservation land to be alert and keep an eye out for any signs of bird flu. One of the most noticeable signs of bird flu is the swift death of multiple birds in a group.

“High risk species include seabirds and scavengers like kāhu and black-backed gulls. Mammalian predators such as rats and stoats also eat dead birds so may be affected.

"Public support on surveillance will help MPI and DOC with our response and measures to protect New Zealand's wildlife," says Cat Wilson.

DOC’s work to vaccinate some of New Zealand’s most threatened bird species is well underway, with 81 of about 300 birds vaccinated so far.

This includes core breeding birds of kākāpō, takahē, tchūriwat’ / tūturuatu / shore plover, kakī / black stilt, kākāriki karaka / orange-fronted parakeet, and pateke / brown teal.

Notes to editors for the public

Report three or more sick or dead wild birds in a group to MPI on 0800 80 99 66.

Do not touch dead or sick birds or pick them up to avoid spread of the virus and protect yourself.

Do not take sick birds to DOC offices or wildlife rehabilitation centres.

Keep dogs away from dead wildlife.

DOC is working with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), the Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora as part of a One Health approach to prepare for the arrival of the H5 strain in New Zealand.

DOC has been preparing for the arrival of bird flu for several years and has plans to mitigate risks to threatened species and public conservation land.

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