Thousands of layer hens across New Zealand have been temporarily confined to housing sheds after H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed in a wild bird on July 15.
No infections have been detected in farm poultry, but the industry has tightened monitoring and safety procedures because the virus can spread rapidly through direct contact and contaminated feed, water, clothing and equipment.
MPI said chicken and eggs remain safe to eat and the virus poses a very low risk to human health, while surveillance and response work is being expanded with industry and other agencies.
A Poultry Council set up in September 2025 under a government-industry agreement has already been working on biosecurity standards and farm response plans to protect supply and support eradication if outbreaks occur.