Tauranga City Council has dealt with 34 complaints about bee droppings in the past two years and now wants to change its rules to handle the problem more easily.
The complaints were about urban beehives in Tauranga, and most were reported during spring when bees are most active. In total, the council investigated 38 complaints about backyard hives, with 34 related to bee excrement.
Bee droppings can leave a sticky, wax-like substance on outdoor furniture and decks. Some residents have found it difficult to clean off. However, council staff say it is not always easy to prove which hive the bees have come from.
Oscar Glossop, the council’s animal services manager, explained that staff must currently decide whether to remove a hive completely or leave it in place. These decisions can sometimes lead to long appeals and disagreements between neighbours. He said the council spent 163 hours over the last two years dealing with bee poo complaints.
The council is now suggesting changes to its Keeping of Animals Bylaw. The new rules would allow for more balanced solutions, such as educating hive owners, instead of jumping straight to removing hives. Officials hope this will prevent long disputes and save staff time.
A council report also pointed out that urban beekeeping has benefits, including helping with food production and supporting wildlife. At present, backyard hives are allowed as long as the bees do not cause problems or safety risks.
