H5N1 Bird Flu: Waste management guidance

New Zealand has recorded detections of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5N1 bird flu) in wild birds.

The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) notes that the risk to human health remains low, there is no evidence of mass mortality in wildlife, and there has been no detection in poultry. However, MPI is continuing surveillance and response activities to protect wildlife, poultry production and communities.

Disposal of H5N1-Related Waste

WasteMINZ has been advised by MPI that a number of Class 1 landfills have indicated they may be able to accept H5N1-related waste. The provisional list below was accurate as at the end of July:

AB Lime Landfill
Bluegums Landfill
Broadlands Road Landfill
Central Hawke’s Bay District Landfill
Hampton Downs Landfill
Kate Valley Landfill
Puwera Landfill
Redvale Landfill & Energy Park
Silverstream Landfill
Spicer Landfill
Tirohia Landfill
Wellington Southern Landfill
Whitford Landfill
York Valley Landfill

Please note that some facilities will only accept small quantities rather than commercial volumes.

Please ensure you contact the landfill directly before transporting H5N1-related waste to confirm acceptance criteria, available capacity, and any specific handling requirements.

MPI is currently preparing a set of frequently asked questions on H5N1 waste management and Health New Zealand is also updating its health and safety guidance. WasteMINZ will share these resources once they become available.

For the latest information on bird flu in New Zealand, visit the MPI website.

H5N1 Bird Flu: Waste management guidance

Disposal of H5N1-Related Waste

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