Woolworths is buzzing with excitement this spring, celebrating the return of sunshine and seasonal favourites by creating the world’s first supermarket for bees in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.
These tiny creatures are the real heroes behind most of the fresh kai (food) in supermarkets, pollinating 70% of all crops eaten by humans.
But bee populations are facing a sticky situation worldwide due to pesticides, climate change, and habitat destruction. That’s why Woolworths is raising the profile of the humble workers by giving bees their very own bee-stro.
Woolworths New Zealand General Manager of Fruit and Vegetables, Ryan McMullen, said they’re thrilled to shine a light on the role bees play in bringing us delicious, fresh produce.
“So much of the fresh fruits and veggies we look forward to every year would not exist without bees.”
“Spring favourites like strawberries and asparagus are back in season, thanks to the tireless work of these tiny pollinators.”
“We want to encourage Kiwis and their families to get outside this spring and become more aware of these amazing creatures and the challenges they face.”
Woolworths is partnering with experts Bees Up Top and Auckland’s Ambury Farm to create the bee-friendly supermarket during the term 3 school holidays from September 28 to October 6. Instead of food, the miniature aisles will be full of bees’ favourite blooms such as lavender, mānuka, and cosmos.
Kiwis are encouraged to buzz on over to the supermarket for bees to take part in free, immersive, and educational activities.
Woolworths is also encouraging people to think about their own homes and how they could make their gardens welcoming to bees.
Some bee-loved plants include harakeke, hebe, and mānuka. They also have a sweet spot for rosemary, camelia and borage.
