16 September 2024: 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 in supermarkets, pollinating 70 percent 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.

Aotearoa is home to a whopping 27 species of native bees that are only found here. So, it’s no wonder Woolworths is making a bee-line to highlight their importance in our food chain and ecosystem.

Woolworths New Zealand General Manager of Fruit and Vegetables, Ryan McMullen, says 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,” Ryan says.

“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.Expect a scavenger hunt, a bee-autiful goodie bag, and experts on hand for all your bee questions. Woolworths is also encouraging people to think about their own homes and how they could make their gardens welcoming to bees.

“Our shoppers can make a difference by planting their very own bee garden and raising awareness about these critical creatures,” Ryan says.

Bees love buzzing about flowers that are single with open, flat shapes or clusters of tiny flowers, rather than ruffled double flowers—these make it easier for bees to feed. Some bee-loved plants include harakeke, hebe, and mānuka. They also have a sweet spot for rosemary, Camelia and Borage.

The Supermarket for Bees at Auckland’s Ambury Farm is open from September 28 to October 6. Tickets are free for Kiwis of all ages and can be secured here [https://www.woolworths.co.nz/shop/content/woolworths-for-bees]. Bee there or bee square!