4029 (2024). Lan Pham to the Minister for Biosecurity

4029 (2024). Lan Pham to the Minister for Biosecurity: Will the Minister commit to prioritising wildlife animal care if Avian Flu arrives in Aotearoa?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: I am advised the strain of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza that is currently circulating has had significant effects on commercial poultry, wild birds and some mammals across the world. For this reason, New Zealand requires a balanced approach across wildlife health and commercial poultry production. Treatment options for infected birds and wildlife are very limited. The government’s priorities are protecting New Zealand’s indigenous wildlife, and minimising the impacts on the poultry industry.