A newly founded Beekeeper’s Association Tonga Inc. aims to create a buzz about bees to to help grow the population of bees in Tonga and ensure their sustainability.

The association held a meet and greet event on 12 June in Nuku'alofa, aiming to create more awareness.

“Our aim is to educate people in beekeeping and also how to react to bees, for example do not spray them but to call us to help and grow the population of the bees in Tonga,” said a spokesperson.

They also conduct training of new beekeepers to increase bee population.

Lopeti Cocker who has been doing beekeeping for over 32-years in Tonga spoke at the event, as well as New Zealand bee keeper David Kramp, via video conferencing.

Kramp trained beekeepers in Tonga together with OHAI Inc.

Also showcased were hives and suits with Tongan Honey and Tonga Bees Wax products on sale through Koko Design (Linda Oto).

BATI's objectives are to ensure the sustainability of the bees and the environment that supports them; public safety and social amenity, good beekeeping practice in line with proven and ethical standards in working with the bees and any activity associated with apiculture.

The event was attended by the New Zealand High Commissioner, HE Tiffany Babington, local trained beekeepers and officials from Tonga Skills.

Sponsors were Davina House, Lion Liquor and Waterfront Lodge & Restaurant.

BATI Board Members includes President: Liz Cowley, Vice President: Michael Vandenberg, Secretary: Julia Hala’api’api, Treasurer: Debra Allan, Expert Member: Salesi Fineanganofo and Expert Member: Niuvakai Latu.