Planting to feed the bees
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have released a handbook offering guidance on how to plant strategically to feed bees.
The cookbook author and television presenter has joined forces with the National Beekeepers Association to work on projects that help promote and protect our kiwi bees. She will work officially with the NBA to help spread the message that bees are vitally important and that they need our help to survive.
"My father kept bees as a hobby, so I grew up watching him tend the hives in our Wellington backyard," she says.
"And as a free range cook who uses nature as my pantry I thoroughly appreciate the importance of bees and the hugely critical role they play in our everyday lives – not to mention the value they add to our economy through pollination."
NBA President Barry Foster is delighted Langbein has come on board.
"Part of the NBA's role is to make sure the public and the policymakers understand the issues our members – and our bees – face and Annabel will give us a high-profile voice when it comes to generating awareness."
The NBA is currently working with MPI to properly establish for the first time the scale of losses that beekeepers are suffering and what's causing bees to die. This will help beekeepers take the right action to stop those losses.
The NBA is also trying to stop the importation of Australian honey because of the increased risk of pests and disease entering this country and it is working with the government on border biosecurity issues.
"There is a lot to do in a short time and having Annabel on board will help us get public support while we do the behind-the-scenes work with officials," says Foster.
