Spread of varroa devastating, National says

The National Party has predicted dire consequences following the latest discovery of the Varroa bee mite.

Last week Biosecurity New Zealand confirmed the pest has been found for the first time in the South Island, it is predicted uncontrolled spread of Varroa could cost South Island farmers over $300 million.

National Party Biosecurity spokesman Shane Ardern said the incursion would not only affect apiarists, but also the horticultural, viticultural, and agricultural sectors which rely on pollination.

He said the ongoing effects could be devastating.