Bird flu alert: Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard confirmed New Zealand’s first H5 bird flu case after a brown skua tested positive following its discovery on Petone Beach in Wellington. Officials say it’s a coastal detection in a single ocean-going seabird, with no evidence of mass wildlife deaths, spread between wild birds, or any poultry infection; eggs and poultry remain safe, and the public is urged not to touch sick or dead birds while MPI monitors the area. Local preparedness: Auckland Council says it’s planning for a possible arrival of H5N1 via seabirds, focusing on strong biosecurity and early detection. Explosive find: A Whangārei 12-year-old found suspicious ordnance at Ōrewa Beach; NZDF safely detonated it in a controlled blast after locals were warned of a loud bang. Environment & wildlife: A southern right whale was freed after becoming entangled near New Zealand’s southern coast, with rescuers cutting away gear after days of dragging buoys and rope. Infrastructure: Queenstown Airport has begun work on a new heavy taxiway as part of a NZ$65m airfield upgrade. Rural concerns: Pōkeno residents are pushing back on a proposed concrete crushing plant near SH2/Irish Road, warning about road safety and health impacts. Conservation trade-off: A land swap could improve habitats for Belmont Quarry but would also hand over parts of Belmont Regional Park with rare native trees, sparking debate. Culture & film: Filming has started on The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, with Andy Serkis back in mo-cap as production enters full swing in New Zealand. Sports: Ireland trained with a fully fit squad ahead of their final Test against the All Blacks at Eden Park.