Don't forget Varroa this summer

Don't forget Varroa this summer

Now that summer is officially here and people start to think about their holidays it is important for them to remember it is illegal to transport bees south of the MAF imposed movement control line across the middle of the North Island and to transport bees to the South Island, says Don Bell, President of the National Beekeepers' Association.

"Last year we had the unfortunate occurrence of varroa infected bees being inadvertently transported to Wellington from the far North on a load of logs. This accidental movement has placed the Lower North Island at considerable risk," said Mr. Bell.

"MAF is spending millions on an eradication programme for the painted apple moth in Auckland. The NBA notes that this programme also includes publicity reminding Aucklanders not to transport vegetation out of the infected areas in Auckland.

"Beekeepers urge the public to remember varroa as well. This parasite is destroying bee populations in the North Island and is a real threat to New Zealand's horticultural and pastoral industries, as well as the home gardener.

"Please do your bit and respect varroa movement control conditions this summer," concluded Mr. Bell.

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