Horowhenua is home to a rich variety of native and migratory birds, from the internationally recognised Manawatū Estuary to our lakes, wetlands, rivers and coastline. Our district is also home to commercial poultry farms and many backyard flocks that are an important part of our community.
That's why Horowhenua District Council is encouraging everyone to be aware of H5 bird flu and know what to do if they come across sick or dead wild birds.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is leading New Zealand's response following recent detections of H5 bird flu in wild birds. Council is supporting that response by sharing practical information with our community.
The good news is there are no confirmed cases in Horowhenua, and the risk to people remains very low. Chicken and eggs remain safe to eat.
What you can do
If you're out enjoying our beaches, lakes, reserves or other natural areas and see three or more sick or dead wild birds together, please don't touch or move them.
Instead:
Report them to MPI by calling 0800 80 99 66 or reporting online.
If it's safe to do so, take a photo and note the location.
Keep children and dogs away from sick or dead birds.
If you keep chickens or other poultry, now is a good time to review your biosecurity practices and reduce contact between domestic birds and wild birds where possible.
Protecting our native wildlife, our environment and our local poultry industry is something we can all play a part in. By knowing what to look for and reporting unusual bird deaths, you're helping experts monitor the situation and respond quickly if needed.
For the latest information, reporting guidance and advice, visit MPI's H5 bird flu webpage at www.mpi.govt.nz/bird-flu.
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