Varroa identified in ten Nelson sites

The varroa mite has been identified in ten sites in the Nelson area as bee-keepers nervously wait to see if the infestation can be controlled.

The pest which destroys honeybee pupae was identified in the South Island for the first time last week and it could have a devastating effect on the local bee-keeping industry as well as for pastoral farmers and horticulturists.

Varroa agency chairman Duncan Butcher says more infected sites have been found in the last couple of days.

He says two were found initially but another eight sites have been confirmed since.

Mr Butcher says more testing over the next few days will give a better indication of the spread.

- NEWSTALK ZB