PASSIONATE about planet? THE ee-lieve it or not, these buzzy creatures and their hives play a huge role in keeping this planet spinning. At least 30 percent of the world's crops and 90 percent of all plants require cross- pollination to spread and thrive. In fact, managed honeybees are the most important pollinators of New Zealand's commercial crops.' Honey tastes delicious spread on toast, mixed in hot water with lemon, or eaten straight from the spoon. to thrive. Bees are responsible for the production of many seeds, nuts, berries, and fruit which are a crucial food source for wild animals. FOOD SOURCE Humans aren't the only ones who enjoy a sweet snack of honey - animals like birds will raid beehives for a taste of nutritious honey, too! A TEASPOON A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY! Unfortunately, the last few years have seen bee populations decline. That's why Lighthouse has partnered with New Zealand Manuka Apiculture (NZMA) to support the development of New Zealand beehives and to help bee populations thrive. 4 SUPPORT THE BEES WILDLIFE HABITATS - OWN A HIVE Pollination is vital for the growth of tropical and temperate forests where millions of animal species live. Many tree species, like willows and poplars, couldn't pollinators like bees. Nestled away in an exclusive location in Northland, Coromandel or Taranaki, your Lighthouse Beehive can be personalised with a colour and name or picture. Plus, it's professionally managed by a team from NZMA - so no bee suits or big gardens are required! HOW DO BEES HELP THE PLANET? grow without I YOUR EVERYDAY FOOD Bees pollinate billions of plants each year, including millions of agricultural crops (apples, melons, asparagus and broccoli, to name a few). In fact, pollinators like bees play a key role in one out of every three bites of food you eat! HOW DO BEES HELP YOUR HEALTH? Every year you own your beehive, you'll also receive a generous supply of Lighthouse Manuka Honey. Either keep every jar for yourself or give vouchers to your friends and family. Owning a Lighthouse beehive means you're not only doing good for the planet, but you'll look after your own health and wellbeing too - that's got to be a win-win! Manuka honey is only produced by honeybees in New Zealand. This elite form of honey is shown to have incredible health benefits due to its amazing antioxidant and antibacterial properties. WILD PLANTS Supporting digestive health, aiding the healing of wounds, and soothing skin issues and sore throats are just some AND ANIMALS In addition to farm-grown fruits and veggies, many species of wild plants depend on insect pollinators Visit a store or head to www.health2000.co.nz of the ways manuka honey can benefit the human body. to find out more and take ownership of your beehive today! 13 For references to this article, visit www.health2000.co.nz/blog/health/passionate-about-the-planet. Always read the label and take as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Lighthouse Health Distributors Limited, Hamilton. JANUARY 2020 • HEALTH 2000