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NEW ZEALAND BEEKEEPER, JUNE 2017
WIDE-RANGING DISCUSSIONS AT SOUTH CANTERBURY FIELD DAY REGIONAL REPORTS
Rebecca Lees
Ninety people convened in Geraldine on Sunday 7 May. Experts reported on industry opportunities and challenges, presented research and offered welcome advice.
Karin Kos, chief executive of Apiculture New Zealand addressed the audience, which included a good mix of hobbyist and commercial beekeepers from as far south as Invercargill. Karin spoke of the unique, yet challenging opportunities the industry faces. “We get a premium price for our honey overseas, and it’s a growing industry. The growth is a little concerning, as it has been so steep, but this is an industry which is inclusive, everyone can get involved. We (ApiNZ) are here to protect our bees and our industry, ensure the path is sound, and that we’re listened to.” Risks of rapid growth and overstocking John Hartnell, board member of Apiculture New Zealand reported on the exponential growth the industry is experiencing, and concerns regarding the risks this poses for the industry. Between April 2009 and March 2017, the number of registered New Zealand beekeepers leapt from 2,680 to 7,975 (up by 5,295) and the number of hives managed surged from 357,789 to 825,630 (up by 467,841). The hobby sector has sharply increased. In 2009 hobbyists accounted for some 1800 beekeepers, whereas 6800 hobbyist beekeepers were registered in March 2017. John outlined risks associated with this growth, “There is the potential for a serious AFB event. It’s currently extremely difficult Management Plan. International markets are now considering testing our honey products for American foulbrood (AFB) spores. Never before has control of diseases been more important.” John explained that the first draft of the AFB Action Plan 2017–2022 has been circulated to bring people to account (if they’re non-compliant) under the current AFB
Karin Kos, Chief Executive of Apiculture New Zealand.
and all beekeepers have been consulted. Submissions received were currently being considered. The 2017–2022 Action Plan is designed to eradicate AFB from New Zealand by 2030. “The way forward is to create a culture which supports compliance, and a system of enforcement which deals with non- compliance.” Dr Linda Newstrom-Lloyd of Trees for Bees discussed overstocking of beehives (which causes starvation and malnutrition), and why planting trees for bees makes good farming sense. Her research has led to the creation of a comprehensive list of species which provide optimum food source value for bees, and can be accessed from their website www.treesforbeesnz.org. Star performers include pipfruits (apple and pear), rosemary, New Zealand flax, lacebark, five finger tree, cabbage tree, pittosporum and gorse. Angus McPherson, also from Trees for Bees, followed with tips on planting and irrigation.
Right: Sean Goodwin. Photos this page: John Hartnell.
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