Hobby beekeeper dies from two stings
A hobby beekeeper died after being stung by bees in Auckland.
Vicky Turner, of Dairy Flat, died on January 5 from a severe anaphylactic reaction to two bee stings received a few days earlier.
The 42-year-old hobby beekeeper received CPR and was put on life support but could not be resuscitated.
Turner, who was a team leader at an animal shelter, had an affinity with animals.
Sister Julie Turner and cousin Nicola Jordan recalled a time when Turner’s parents returned from holiday to find she had adopted and trained a dog, despite being told she couldn’t have one.
Naming it Pooky after Garfield’s teddy bear, Turner was eventually allowed to keep the dog, and still had it when she died.
Her affinity with animals saw her spend time in Thailand training elephants, and in the United States working with dangerous dogs.
A ‘‘farm girl, and a realist at heart’’, Turner was also renowned for taking in strays. No animal was too much trouble.
Turner was farewelled at a private ceremony at her parent’s Red Beach home on January 10.
Forty-two doves were released – to mark her age – and guests were invited to bring their pets.
Silverdale Animal Shelter worker Aimee Reilly said Turner was an ‘‘amazing mentor and team leader’’.