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Biosecurity officials have stopped two horses from Australia landing here.
The move follows confirmed cases of horse flu in New South Wales, which has led to a ban there on racing and the movement of horses, mules and donkeys.
Imports from Australia to New Zealand have also been banned.
Assistant Director-General of MAF Biosecurity Barry O'Neil says the situation in Australia is developing rapidly.
He says New Zealand usually receives 10 to 30 horses a week from Australia.
Dr O'Neil says 200 animals which have been imported in the past two months are being checked out, and he expects the disruption will have a major effect on the breeding season.
Horse owners who notice any respiratory illness in their animals are being asked to call 0800 80 90 66.
- NEWSTALK ZB
