Two specialised rearing beehives worth hundreds of dollars are believed to have been stolen from an apiary at Apata.

Katikati-based Kiwi Coast Apiary owner Mike Silson says the two hives packed with bees have been taken from a private property in Wainui South Road.

A photograph of the beehives taken from a private property in Wainui South Road.

The hives were two of a total of 40 located at the property for use by Mike's business and are believed to have been stolen sometime in the last 10 days.

'The guys went into the property to service the hives two days ago and realised the two were gone.”

Both hives are known as rearing hives that contain two queen bees in each. Together they are worth about $700, says Mike.

'The hives are full of bees. They are actually rearing hives so they have a queen on each side of the hive.”

A police report has been filed, but Mike is hoping someone may know something, as this is a rare occurrence and the first time it has happened to the business, he says.

'They must have gone through the gateway and drove onto the private driveway – they might have loaded them into the boot, or back of a ute and just scarpered.

'I'm really annoyed - it's the first time in my 25 years as a beekeeper.”

Anyone with information on the hives is asked to contact their local police station or provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.