World Bee Day

World Bee Day History

World Bee Day is an international observance intended to raise awareness about the critical role of bees in maintaining global biodiversity, ecosystems, and food security. The day emphasizes the importance of protecting bees and their habitats, promoting sustainable beekeeping practices, and supporting scientific research to better understand the challenges and threats facing these species. Bees play a vital role in pollinating plants, including those that produce many of the fruits, vegetables, and nuts that form the basis of our diets.

The observance of World Bee Day was officially adopted by the United Nations in 2017, following the initiative of Slovenia, a country with a strong beekeeping tradition. In New Zealand, this day holds particular significance given the unique native bee species, the role of honeybees in pollinating the country's agricultural crops, and the thriving honey industry based on the internationally renowned manuka honey. Honeybees and native bees, as well as other pollinators, contribute significantly to New Zealand's agricultural production and local biodiversity, highlighting the importance of this international observance in raising awareness and spurring action to protect these insect populations.

To celebrate World Bee Day in New Zealand, communities and organizations host various events and activities to engage people in learning about bees and their importance. World Bee Day is observed annually on May 20th, providing an opportunity for New Zealanders to engage and connect with the vital work of bees and their role in supporting the nation's agriculture, industry, and natural ecosystems.

World Bee Day facts

• According to the UN, about 35% of invertebrate pollinators (bees and butterflies) face global extinction due to human impact.
• A single honeybee can produce around 1/12th of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.
• A typical honeybee colony can consist of 20,000 to 80,000 bees during peak season.
• The first hive of honey bees was introduced to New Zealand in 1839 by Mary Bumby, a missionary who brought them from England to help pollinate her garden.
• The indigenous mānuka tree, known for its antibacterial properties, is a popular source of honey produced by New Zealand bees.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Bee Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Bee Day

• Do what you can to help bees! Plant native plants and flowers, avoid using pesticides or herbicides, and purchase honey from local farmers.
• Explore a collection of poems about bees and their importance.
• Watch a movie about bees in New Zealand today. Here are our top picks:
  1. Keeper of the Bees (2015)
  2. Urban Beekeeping in New Zealand (2014)
  3. The Kiwi Bee Man (2014)
• Take part in a pollinator-friendly gardening initiative today. This is an opportunity to promote plants native to New Zealand that support bees and encourage the reduction of pesticide use.