Northland Mānuka Honey Production Flourishes Amid Competition for Hives

On 23 June 2026, RNZ reported on the evolving landscape of New Zealand’s primary industries, highlighting a burgeoning 'tug of war' for resources between the kiwifruit and honey sectors. As honey production becomes increasingly profitable, particularly in the northern regions, the demand for beehives is reaching new heights. In Northland, Gavin's Apiaries has positioned itself at the forefront of this growth. The operation currently manages up to 1200 hives, which are dedicated solely to the production of Mānuka honey. This strategic focus reflects the high value placed on Mānuka products in both domestic and international markets, showcasing the strength of the apiculture sector in Te Tai Tokerau. The rise in honey’s profitability is creating a competitive environment for pollination services. While honey producers are thriving, the kiwifruit industry is facing potential challenges in securing enough hives for their own pollination seasons. This increase in demand follows a record-breaking 2026 kiwifruit season, where production is forecast by New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc to reach 236 million trays over the next five years, driven largely by the SunGold variety. The growth of dedicated operations like Gavin's Apiaries signals a robust period for Northland’s honey producers. According to reporting by RNZ, the economic shift toward high-value honey production is reshaping how apiarists allocate their hives, prioritising the harvest of premium Mānuka honey over traditional orchard pollination contracts. This trend underscores the increasing importance of honey as a cornerstone of New Zealand’s rural business economy.