New Zealand biosecurity agencies are monitoring closely after Western Australia confirmed the H5N1 2.3.4.4b avian influenza strain in a migratory seabird.
A sick giant petrel in the same region has also tested positive in preliminary screening, though Australian authorities report no mass bird deaths or poultry outbreaks have been detected.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said New Zealand maintains regular contact with Australian authorities on the situation. The Ministry for Primary Industries, Department of Conservation, Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand have coordinated with industry and councils on response planning.
The H5N1 strain has killed large numbers of wild birds, poultry and some mammals internationally. Hoggard said if the virus reaches New Zealand it will likely spread among wild birds and cannot be eliminated, but "we can work together to limit its impact".
The public should report clusters of three or more sick or dead wild birds to 0800 80 99 66. Officials say there is no food safety concern and human health risk remains low.