What is the New Zealand Honeybee Care Code™?
The New Zealand Honeybee Care Code™ specifies practices of care that ensure bees are treated humanely with their physical, health and behavioural needs taken fully into account in all aspects of beekeeping operations.

Why do we need a Code?
Bee health is critical to the longevity of our industry—without good bee health we do not have a sustainable industry, nor will we retain our social licence to operate; that is, keeping the goodwill of our consumers and the public in operating our hobbies and businesses.

The Code specifies practices of care that ensure bees are treated humanely with their physical, health and behavioural needs taken fully into account in all aspects of beekeeping operations.

Is the Code compulsory?
The code has been drafted by industry as a voluntary code. We believe many beekeepers will already meet and exceed these elements.

When will the Code come into effect?
The Code has been finalised and was released in December 2021.

What are the next steps?
Apiculture NZ’s first step is building widespread awareness and understanding of the Code. We will also take some time to talk and listen to members as to how we can best monitor the Code’s progress and its uptake.