Monday, 04 July 2016 09:55

Beekeepers unite under one flag

Written by 
Federated Farmers bee industry group chairman John Hartnell (pictured) applauds the move. Federated Farmers bee industry group chairman John Hartnell (pictured) applauds the move.

All beekeepers will be now represented by Apiculture New Zealand.

Since 2002, either Federated Farmers' bee industry group or National Beekeepers Association have represented NZ apiarists.

A nine-member ApiNZ board was elected at the beekeeper organisation's annual meeting last week.

Federated Farmers bee industry group chairman John Hartnell applauds the move as great news for the apiculture industry, whose exports are forecast to exceed $300 million this year.

"This new approach brings everyone together, strengthens the voice of the industry to government and promotes research and work in industry best practice.

"With 5000 people engaged in apiculture in NZ there's potential for the industry to be worth $1 billion per year."

Federated Farmers' national president Dr William Rolleston says it's now time for the industry to move forward.

"The industry in NZ has matured to a point where [the unified] body is justified. Federated Farmers is pleased to have helped the industry for 14 years, supporting its transition.

"The bee industry group has done a marvellous job promoting the importance of a strong and healthy bee population.

"Educating our members has been a priority for the group; for example, the Trees for Bees project to enable bees to gather quality pollen and nectar raised awareness of the importance of bees to the primary industry."

Rolleston says Feds hopes many beekeepers will remain members of the organisation.

More like this

Sticky situation

OPINION: The Federated Farmers rural advocacy hub at Fieldays has been touted as a great success.

Featured

Farmstrong marks 10 years of rural support

Nationwide rural wellbeing programme, Farmstrong recently celebrated its tenth birthday at Fieldays with an event attended by ambassador Sam Whitelock, Farmers Mutual Group (FMG), Farmstrong partners, and government Ministers.

National

Machinery & Products

Calf feeding boost

Advantage Plastics says it is revolutionising calf meal storage and handling, making farm life easier, safer, and more efficient this…

JD's precision essentials

Farmers across New Zealand are renowned for their productivity and efficiency, always wanting to do more with less, while getting…

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Don't hold back!

OPINION: ACT MP Mark Cameron isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but he certainly calls it how he sees it, holding…

Sorry, not sorry

OPINION: Did former PM Jacinda Ardern get fawning reviews for her book?

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter