75610 (2024). Lan Pham to the Minister for Biosecurity

75610 (2024). Lan Pham to the Minister for Biosecurity: What actions, if any, has the Minister and his offices taken to prepare for the arrival of bird flu, listed by title and date?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: I presented a paper to Cabinet on 30 September on the One Health Response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). On 13 November I announced an awareness campaign that encourages New Zealanders to take steps to be ready for bird flu. The campaign is focused on the thousands of New Zealanders that that are owners of backyard chickens and pet birds, as well as lifestyle block owners. I am advised that Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is collaborating closely with Poultry Industry Associations, the Egg Producers Federation, hatcheries, and farmers to strengthen understanding about HPAI, preparedness planning (including the development of on farm biosecurity preparedness and response plans and business continuity) and through ongoing communication. MPI and Industry will also be supporting farmers with implementation of on farm plans and furthering understanding through farm extension activity starting early 2025. Early detection of the disease is key. MPI is working closely with New Zealand's wildlife hospitals, poultry industry groups and vets to raise awareness and get people looking for signs of bird flu, for example, a pilot project with Dunedin Wildlife Hospital has seen increased testing of wild birds for bird flu – about 60 wild birds were sampled and tested for avian influenza, with no detections. Testing kits have also been supplied to people in Antarctica to use when they spot deaths that look like they could be bird flu. So far this year we have tested over 30 different species of birds. We are carrying out nationwide testing surveillance of birds in New Zealand for exotic diseases and working with Fish & Game New Zealand to conduct annual summer field surveillance programmes. I refer the member to WPQ 58122 (2024), WPQ 58119 (2024) and WPQ 58124 (2024) for further information.