DEVELOPMENT OF THE BEE INDUSTRY IN WAIKATO.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1952, 10 January 1885, Page 3

DEVELOPMENT OF THE BEE INDUSTRY IN WAIKATO.

Within the past year or so apiculture has made wonderful strides throughout the Waikato district; indeed, there are few other cultures that have commanded mo much attention and interest as this hitherto obscure department of farm life. Nor can it bo spoken of as belonging exclusivity to farm life, for almost every person uow-a-dnya who cultivates a few rmds of garden whether he be labourer, nur'iaiiii , , or what not, is the proud posMis.-cr <>i' a small bee colony of from two mid three to two and three and twenty hive-". A small apiary may now bo found on almost every farm, and in almost every garden, flourishing, and affording not only a pleasura'oV pastime, and Htudy to those who own them, but a very considerable source of profit likewise. It i»t only very recently that bees have been looked upon as n source of profit, <>r at least as a means of livelihood. The honey industry up to lately was almost undreamt of, its importance was overlooked, and bees were merely kept as a family fad and their Krodiice for family use. But of late, men aye devoted themselves exclusively to the study of bees and honey making, and from these apiculturists we have learned much ot interest and service. They have shown us how the bees may be greatly assisted in their arduous pursuits, how by supplying foundation comb and the proper class of hives the accumulation of honey is greatly facilitated and the supply niea.sureably increased. This improvement has led to improvement, and every day seems to give fresh impetus to the industry. The starting of that valuable little publication, the Bee Journal, which is devoted exclusively to advanced bee culture has we believe in a very great measure tended to place boe farming on its present basis. All beokeepers have thus had the advantage ot the superior knowledge and experience of others placed within their reach at a price commensurate with the moans of the poorest cotter. The Beekeepers' Association, which is open to all. should have every beuniHii of any standing as a member. The association promises to be a powerful influence for good ; it will rule the market, and protect the interest of all who supply it. At Matalnata, the industry has assumed extensive proportions. The works in connection with the apiary there afford much interest and instruction to the visitor, and Mr Hopkins is ever willing to show the visitor round. Here the foundation comb is made in large quantities and sold to all requiring a supply. Large parcels have been exported for sale to all the principal towns in the colony and Australia. It is expected, under favourable circumstances, that thi* year the Matatnata apiary will turn out five or six tons of honey. The local market will take all that can be made, and at a price that cannot fail to pay handsomely.