Varroa Resistance Bee Breeding Programme New Zealand

The Bee Breeding New Zealand Group (BBNZG) is supporting the development of Varroa-resistant honey bees through collaboration, research, and practical breeding programs across New Zealand.

Our goal is to build Varroa Sensitive Hygiene (VSH) into the national bee population while maintaining genetic diversity and strong production traits.

Our First Project – Building Varroa Resistance

The current focus is to:

  • Develop and strengthen VSH traits in NZ bee populations

  • Support beekeepers to identify and select resistant stock

  • Maintain genetic diversity while improving resistance

This work combines practical beekeeping with scientific breeding approaches.

What is VSH (Varroa Sensitive Hygiene)?

VSH is a natural behaviour in bees that allows them to:

  • Detect Varroa-infested brood

  • Remove affected cells

  • Reduce mite reproduction

This trait is central to developing long-term resistance.

Getting Started – Resources for Beekeepers

BBNZG provides resources to help beekeepers begin breeding for resistance:

  • Written protocols tailored to New Zealand conditions

  • Pilot studies on VSH expression

  • Workshops and training opportunities

  • Access to the BBNZG network and membership

Education and Industry Support

We support the industry by:

  • Helping beekeepers integrate resistance selection into everyday practice

  • Explaining how resistance traits are measured

  • Providing guidance on breeding options

  • Supporting knowledge sharing across the sector

Research and Findings

A Canterbury pilot study funded by the NZ Honey Trust showed:

  • VSH traits can be passed from open-mated queens to their daughters

  • Ongoing selection is required to maintain resistance

  • Structured breeding programs can amplify these traits

This work forms the foundation for ongoing development in New Zealand.

Pathway – Discover, Maintain & Amplify

The programme supports a step-by-step approach:

1. Discover

  • Identify colonies showing resistance traits

  • Measure and understand behaviour

2. Maintain

  • Select and breed from resistant stock

  • Build a stable genetic base

3. Amplify

  • Use structured breeding programs

  • Explore instrumental insemination

  • Scale resistance across the industry

Working Together

This initiative involves:

Beekeepers & Queen Producers

  • Selecting and breeding for resistance

  • Providing feedback into breeding programs

Breeding Programmes

  • Collaborative projects

  • Development of VSH-focused breeding strategies

  • Managing genetic diversity

Goals of the BBNZG

  • Support industry collaboration

  • Develop Varroa resistance in NZ bees

  • Enable knowledge sharing and education

  • Facilitate workshops and training

  • Support future research and funding

Funding and Support

This work is supported by:

The New Zealand Honey Trust

Get Involved

If you are interested in breeding for Varroa resistance or learning more: