The National Apiculture Industry Conference in Wanganui reached agreement to merge New Zealand's two largest beekeeping organisations.
The decision was made on June 24 when an independent facilitator was brought in so the 500 people at the conference could express their views, feelings and frustrations, Allan Richards, president of the southern North Island branch of the National Beekeepers' Association said.
When asked whether change was needed, 99 per cent of those present said "yes".
The two big organisations are the association and Federated Farmers Bees - they have 800 members between them.
Most members wanted one organisation to speak in a clear, united voice to government. The new body will likely aim to take in everyone - commercial beekeepers, hobbyists, exporters, packers and researchers - and could have as many as 4800 members.
The merger needed to happen quickly, Federated Farmers Bees chairman John Hartnell said.
His organisation decided at its annual meeting to become founding members.
The industry had changed fast in the last four years, he said, and it needed respect to operate in the commercial world.
As a starting point for the merger, the association had sent out a survey to ask the views of its 600 members.
When the results are collated the two organisations are to meet and start talking details.