At this stage it is unknown how the mite arrived in New Zealand. The evidence suggests it may have been present and undetected for up to five years. Spread is commonly by live bees, and there have been no live bee imports permitted into New Zealand for at least 40 years to protect our bee health status. The mite spreads by natural means very slowly, at a rate of 5 km a year. When first affected, hives have low numbers of mites that are not easily seen.
Numbers build up over several years until the hive dies.
This will remain in force until the survey has determined the mite's distribution. There will be further controls on movements of these items from the North to South Islands. Surveillance From tomorrow, teams of apiarists led by MAF authorised persons will be visiting and inspecting beehives within the controlled area. MAF and the NBA are requesting the cooperation of all beekeepers throughout New Zealand to inspect their hives for signs of the Varroa mite. Sudden hive crashes.