Beekeepers Unite: Ōtaki Buzz Club's Compassionate Mission to Revitalize Hawke’s Bay Bee Colonies After Cyclone
In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, the resilient beekeeping community of Ōtaki Buzz Club has stepped up to support their counterparts in Hawke’s Bay. The cyclone not only impacted human lives but took a toll on the local bees, with over 178 hives lost due to flooding and destruction.
Thomas Reisinger, the secretary of Ōtaki Buzz Club, took charge of a heartwarming initiative to provide 25 replacement hives to Beekeepers Hawke’s Bay Inc. Recognizing the essential role of bees in our ecosystem, the community rallied together to contribute to the recovery efforts.
Members of the Ōtaki Buzz Club, spanning from Raumati South to Levin and established in 2013, volunteered to craft nucleus hives, complete with honey frames, pollen frames, brood frames at different stages, and a queen. These small beehives are vital for the revitalization of bee colonies.
Thomas Reisinger emphasized the collaborative spirit of the initiative, stating that they focused on hobbyists as commercial beekeepers could manage their needs independently. Approximately 20 hives have already made their way to Hawke’s Bay, with the remaining few scheduled for delivery later this month, marking the successful conclusion of the project.
Considering the diverse climate between Raumati South and Levin, different beekeepers are preparing their nucleus hives at varying times. Reisinger highlighted the ongoing support, ensuring timely deliveries to Hawke’s Bay.
As a seasoned beekeeper for the past decade, Reisinger finds solace and meditation in tending to his 53 hives on his Manakau-based lifestyle block. Acknowledging the critical role of bees in our ecosystem, he extends his expertise to mentor new beekeepers, emphasizing the importance of preserving these pollinators.
"For me, it’s about meditation," Reisinger said, echoing the sentiments shared by many who find a profound connection with nature through beekeeping. His journey from a lavender farm to a dedicated beekeeper showcases the transformative power of environmental stewardship and community support.
In Reisinger's words, "Without the bees, we're doomed." The Ōtaki Buzz Club's initiative stands as a testament to the power of community-driven environmental action and the interconnectedness of our efforts in safeguarding nature.
#BeekeepersHelpingBeekeepers, #CommunitySupport, #CycloneRelief
