There were 41,000 cases of flu in New Zealand last year, during a relatively quiet flu season. But experts say that does not mean another quiet season should be expected this year.
In all, 532 people were hospitalised because of flu.
Environmental Science and Research says that although vaccinations remained high for those over 65, total vaccinations were down by 7%.
The flu season usually starts in May and peaks in June or July.
Radio New Zealand's health correspondent says public awareness of flu was high during swine flu in 2009 and the following year.
But ESR says overall flu activity last year was one of the lowest levels in the past 15 years.
