Hopes new pathways for global trade can be created as officials from small countries around the world meet in Auckland.

Trade Minister Todd McClay's chairing the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership meeting tomorrow – bringing together delegates from 21 countries.

It includes Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Panama, Rwanda, and Singapore.

International Business Forum Executive Director Felicity Roxburgh told Ryan Bridge this group can tackle issues together.

She says they can navigate tariff barriers and help create common certification.

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No surprises bird flu has reached our shores, as New Zealanders are asked to keep an eye out for transmission escalation.

A sub-Antarctic seabird found on Wellington's Petone Beach last week has tested positive for the H5N1 strain.

Officials say symptoms to look out for in birds include paralysis, shaking, respiratory issues, or diarrhoea.

Otago University evolutionary virologist Jemma Geoghegan told Ryan Bridge there's no evidence of widespread transmission yet.

She says once it starts spreading between birds on the mainland, that's when there's a risk the virus could get into poultry sheds and concerns would grow.

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Belief sluggish retail spending is a reminder retailers need to stick to the basics.

Stats NZ says core retail spending last month was only 0.4 percent higher year on year.

Spending on clothes fell most - at 4.2-percent - its fourth straight decrease.

First Retail Group Managing Director Chris Wilkinson told Ryan Bridge retailers have to be hungry in the market, with strong retail disciplines - but he understands it's tough.

He says rising costs and distribution has made things challenging for retailers.

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