New Zealand to mandate poultry biosecurity amid bird flu threat

New Zealand authorities prepare for the potential establishment of H5N1 bird flu in wild birds by making biosecurity measures mandatory for poultry operators with over 100 birds, aiming to safeguard the food supply, trade, and animal welfare.

New Zealand is moving to make poultry biosecurity mandatory as authorities prepare for the likelihood that H5 bird flu will become established in wild birds.

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said cabinet had approved regulations requiring operators with more than 100 birds to develop, register and implement avian disease biosecurity plans. The rules are intended to replace a voluntary system that officials say leaves compliant farmers exposed to gaps elsewhere in the sector.

According to the Ministry for Primary Industries, the framework follows consultation that closed on 2 November 2025 and drew 36 submissions. The proposals cover commercial poultry, including record-keeping, audits, offences and penalties, and cost recovery for inspections. The rules are due to be drafted with industry bodies and brought into force by the end of 2026.

The ministry says H5N1 has spread rapidly overseas since emerging in 2020, affecting wild birds and poultry across multiple regions and, in rare cases, mammals and humans. New Zealand confirmed its first H5 case in a brown skua at Petone Beach in Wellington on 15 July 2026.

Officials argue the new regime will help protect food supply, trade, animal welfare and the wider biosecurity system. Smaller operators are expected to receive support from MPI’s on-farm advisory team.

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