Report a bee swarm

Have you spotted a bee swarm? We can help safely relocate it.

Call us

What to Do First

Before contacting us or a local beekeeper, please make note of the following details:

  • Exact physical address of the swarm

  • Specific location (e.g. in a bush, tree, on a fence, etc.)

  • Height off the ground (will a ladder be needed?)

  • Approximate size of the swarm (e.g. about the size of a football)

Find a Swarm Collector

Use the interactive map below to find a volunteer beekeeper near you.
Click on a pin to see their name and phone number.

  • All collectors are independent volunteers

  • Swarm collection is free of charge

  • Swarms are collected safely and with care for the bees

If the first beekeeper you contact is unavailable, please feel free to try another collector or contact our Swarm Coordinator.

Swarm Coordinator:
Bryan Lang – 021 620 716

BEEKEEPERS

If you want to be listed as a bee swarm collector, you must register here (Auckland Beekeepers Club members only)

**You must register with your full street address or you will not be added to the map**

Collecting beekeepers agree to be available during working hours

If you agreed with a customer to collect a swarm but your availability changes, you must pass the details to another beekeeper on the list.

If a bee swarm moves into a building, it is no longer a swarm and a professional service will likely be required. Discuss any resident colonies with the homeowner, but you are not obliged to do anything.

Important Health & Safety Notice

Swarms can carry American Foulbrood (AFB), a serious and notifiable disease.

If you collect a swarm:

  • Keep it isolated in a temporary hive until a full brood cycle has passed

  • Inspect for AFB before combining with other hives

  • Maintain detailed records of each collection

  • This is especially important if bees are gifted or sold to others

These steps align with legal obligations under Assure Quality NZ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you're a registered beekeeper, yes but swarms must be quarantined and observed for disease such as American Foulbrood (AFB) before integration into your apiary.

  • Generally no. Swarming bees are focused on relocation and are not defensive, as they have no brood to protect. However, they may sting if provoked.

  • In Auckland Spring (September to December) is the most common time. Warmer weather and increasing daylight signal bees to expand and reproduce.

  • Swarming is a natural behaviour that allows a hive to reproduce, improve genetic diversity, and reduce disease pressure. A portion of the colony leaves with the queen to establish a new hive.

  • No, our swarm collection service is completely free. We are a volunteer-based club.