Man caught with $40k of honey

A man has been arrested in Hawke’s Bay with $40,000 worth of allegedly stolen honey.

Police executed a search warrant at the man’s Hastings yesterday morning, and arrested him.

James O’Keefe, 41, appeared in Hastings District Court on charges of burglary and receiving stolen property in relation to the largescale theft of honey and associated products, including allegedly receiving about $40,000 worth of honey.

Beeswax, a shotgun, and ammunition were also located during the search.

O’Keefe was remanded in custody and would appear in court again next week.

Senior Sergeant Mike Stevenson, of the Eastern District Command Centre, said thefts like this had a major impact ‘‘on hardworking business-people and our local community’’.

‘‘While investigations remain ongoing, Hawke’s Bay police are pleased to be able to hold this male to account,’’ he said.

Apiculture New Zealand chief executive Karin Kos said the arrest was a good outcome and ‘‘sent a clear message that the police were taking honey and beehive theft seriously’’.

‘‘Honey and beehive theft has become a growing issue for New Zealand beekeepers over the last few years, with the total value of these thefts estimated in the millions. It’s devastating for those beekeepers targeted by thieves and we’re pleased to see the police make this significant arrest,’’ she said.

‘‘A few years ago you saw the odd isolated incident. Today we’re seeing it occur on a much wider scale, we’re seeing larger hives targeted; police are very aware of it.

‘‘I know police have talked about honey theft being attractive to organised crime,’’ Kos said.

Anyone with information related to the theft of honey should contact their local police station, or call the Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555 111.