Pest & Diseases

Discover things you need to know about the pests and diseases that affect honey bees in New Zealand. From Varroa mite and American Foulbrood (AFB) to seasonal hive health risks, our expert articles provide practical guidance for beekeepers at every level. Learn how to identify common symptoms, prevent outbreaks, and manage threats to keep your hives strong and productive. Stay informed with the treatment methods and best practices for protecting New Zealand’s honey bee population.

Featured
Managing Varroa A Holistic Approach 
Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases
Managing Varroa A Holistic Approach 
Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases

Varroa mites (Varroa destructor) are one of the biggest threats to honeybee colonies. If left unmanaged, these parasites can devastate a hive within 18 months, likely much sooner. For new beekeepers or newbees, deciding how to combat varroa can feel overwhelming. Here are some insights into managing varroa mites, covering chemical and non-chemical treatments and monitoring methods.

Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases
Managing Varroa Environmental Interventions 
Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases, Varroa
Managing Varroa Environmental Interventions 
Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases, Varroa

Each method reduces varroa in the hive. Combining methods can lead to significant reduction in mites and reduced treatments. 

Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases, Varroa
American Foulbrood (AFB): What Every New Zealand Beekeeper Must Know
Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases, AFB
American Foulbrood (AFB): What Every New Zealand Beekeeper Must Know
Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases, AFB

American Foulbrood (AFB) is one of the most serious diseases affecting honeybee colonies in Aotearoa New Zealand. Known as the “beekeeper’s disease,” AFB spreads primarily through human activity — particularly the sharing or mismanagement of hiveware and equipment.

Ken Brown
Pest & Diseases, AFB