New Zealand has recorded its first-ever case of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in a brown skua found on Petone Beach. Authorities have launched a vaccination program for select endangered species as they move to an active national response.

Agricultural authorities are urging poultry producers to upgrade biosecurity as the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus reaches Australia's east coast and continues to devastate US farms.

A giant petrel discovered on the NSW Mid North Coast has tested positive for the H5 strain of avian influenza in preliminary testing. Authorities are currently awaiting laboratory confirmation while maintaining coordinated surveillance and biosecurity protocols.