More than one third of what people eat is the result of intensive pollination by bees, yet the humble honey bee is battling to keep New Zealand's hives alive.

This is the message bee industry supporters are promoting during Bee Week, starting today and running until Friday, June 3.

National Beekeepers' Association of New Zealand, Bay of Plenty branch, president Dennis Crowley hopes people will take a moment this week to consider the value of bees.

'To survive our bees need clever science, smart growers and farmers, and strong biosecurity,” says National Beekeepers' Association of New Zealand joint-CEO Daniel Paul.

The New Zealand beekeeping industry has been hit by the Varroa mite and American Foulbrood – and there are other threats on the horizon.

'Varroa mite is showing signs of resistance to synthetic pyrethroid treatments,” says Daniel.

'If this resistance becomes widespread, the impact on the industry will be as great, if not greater, than when Varroa first arrived in the country.”

Daniel says there are also two other major pests in Australia that would also 'devastate the industry” if they arrive.

These pathogens could be brought into New Zealand through honey imports, which are not currently allowed from Australia, imported goods or general traveller luggage.

He says there are opportunities for Kiwis to be proactive in protecting bees though.

'Travellers and importers can help bees by ensuring their luggage or imported goods are free from any foreign pests or diseases before bringing them into the country.

'If they are unsure they can request assistance from customs.”

Farmers can help by being more responsible with their use of pesticides, some of which have been found to lead to a loss in bee numbers.

'Bees that have adequate nutrition have stronger hives and are able to better withstand pests and diseases.”