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Beekeeping Course To Bring A Buzz To The Bay

Friday 20 April 2018, 2:37PM

By Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology

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Apiculture Tutor, Omar Martinez
Apiculture Tutor, Omar Martinez Credit: Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology

BAY OF PLENTY

Toi Ohomai will be offering a course in beekeeping for the first time this July. The New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 3) [Beekeeping] will be offered out of the Windermere and Whakatāne campuses. 

Toi Ohomai has employed experienced apiculturist, Omar Martinez, to teach the course and the native Argentinean says he can’t wait to get things started. 

“I’ve been working in the Apiculture sector in New Zealand for almost 12 years. Having the opportunity to support development in this area is a dream of mine. I know people will enjoy this course and the opportunities it will provide them.”

Shelley Rose, Group Manager Primary Production at Toi Ohomai says New Zealand needs more experienced and qualified beekeepers to support and grow the apiculture industry.

“Apiculture is one of the many growth areas in the primary industries. It’s interesting, dynamic and there’s good job outcomes. People who want to keep bees as a hobby will also enjoy this course.”

Graduates of the one year, part-time course will learn about hive management, bee behaviour, disease control and safe working strategies. They’ll also walk away with their own beehive, bee suit, hive tool and smoker.