Microfluidic device for pathogen detection
Project start: 1 November 2022
Project length: 2 years
MPI funding: $150,000
Industry funding: $190,000
Industry partner: DNAiTECH Ltd
Region: Nationwide
This project aims to develop an improved testing device for American Foulbrood and varroa mites – two serious pathogens that affect the apiculture industry. The device would be able to detect pest DNA and could be used by beekeepers in the field.
Chatham Island apiculture business
Project start: 4 October 2022
Project length: 2 years
MPI funding: $61,852
Industry funding: $52,000
Industry partner: Go Wild Limited
Region: Chatham Islands
This project will survey the composition and potential bioactivity of mono and multifloral honeys from Rēkohu/Wharekauri (Chatham Islands). Research into the properties of locally grown honey will potentially enable unique products to be developed.
Ātihau-Whanganui research and innovation project
Project start: 4 April 2022
Project length: 3 years
MPI funding: $433,920
Industry funding: $301,280
Industry partner: Ātihau-Whanganui Inc
Region: Whanganui
The project will enable Ātihau-Whanganui Incorporated to apply a Māori lens and a focus on sustainability to inform their apiculture, farming practices and subsequent market supply. The project includes mātauranga Māori farming research, mānuka management research and market analysis.
Securing a resilient and sustainable future: strategic planning for the sustainable growth of the honey sector
Project start: 17 March 2022
Project length: 14 months
MPI funding: $225,000
Industry funding: $158,500
Industry partner: Apiculture NZ, Honey Industry Trust, Comvita, Manuka Health
Region: Nationwide
This project will establish a strategic plan to help create a sustainable future for the New Zealand honey sector. It aims to define opportunities for all industry participants to generate and capture more value from New Zealand honey. It seeks to understand the levels of production, capability, innovation and quality assurance needed to achieve sustainable growth.
