Did you know that a sticky substance made by bees could hold the key to better health? It’s called propolis, or 'bee glue,' and it’s sparking excitement in the scientific community. A groundbreaking collaboration between apicultural researchers and the Tuawhenua Trust in Te Urewera, New Zealand, is uncovering its potential—but here’s where it gets fascinating: this isn’t your average propolis. It’s infused with compounds from native New Zealand plants, and scientists are just beginning to understand its unique properties. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this natural substance really revolutionize wound care, boost immunity, or even play a role in managing diabetes? Let’s dive in.
Propolis is essentially a resin collected by honeybees from plants, which they mix with their saliva, beeswax, and pollen. Apicultural scientist Michelle Taylor explains, ‘It’s like nature’s glue—bees use it to seal their hives, regulate airflow, and protect against intruders, from insects to humans.’ Unlike honey, propolis is a complex mixture of compounds, and its composition varies depending on the plants bees gather from. That’s where this study gets groundbreaking.
Last autumn, hives were placed on Tuawhenua Trust lands near Ruatāhuna, in the heart of Te Urewera. The team from Manawa Honey NZ, a Māori-owned business, partnered with scientists from the Bioeconomy Science Institute to collect native plant samples within 1,500 meters of the hives and analyze the propolis produced. The results? Astonishing. The propolis contained a wide range of compounds, many of which were also found in the native plants, including miro, rimu, and totara. This challenges previous assumptions that New Zealand propolis was primarily poplar-based. ‘We’re discovering that our propolis is truly unique,’ Taylor says. ‘And this is the part most people miss: its complexity could unlock new health benefits.’
Propolis is already recognized for its healing properties—think antimicrobial effects, wound healing, and immune support. But Taylor is particularly intrigued by its potential to improve glycemic control and reduce insulin resistance. ‘With diabetes rates soaring in New Zealand, we’re exploring whether propolis from our native plants could be part of the solution,’ she explains. While research is still in its early stages, international studies hint at its promise as a complementary therapy. But is this just hype, or could propolis really be a game-changer?
For Manawa Honey’s chief executive, Brenda Tahi, this research aligns with their kaupapa—a vision of harmony between people and nature, leading to better health. ‘Propolis fits perfectly into this philosophy,’ she says. Tahi also highlights the growing role of Māori land trusts in honey production, particularly with mānuka honey, much of which comes from Māori-owned land. ‘It’s about reclaiming our connection to the whenua [land] and its gifts,’ she adds.
Historically, wild honey gathering has been a tradition in Ruatāhuna. Families would return to the same hives year after year, often found in the hollows of trees like matai. ‘It was a communal effort,’ Tahi recalls. ‘Climbing trees with ropes and kerosene tins to collect honey—it’s part of our heritage.’
While mānuka honey is famous, Tahi emphasizes that New Zealand’s forests produce a variety of honeys, each with its own flavor and properties. From hinau and rātā to kānuka and tāwari, the bees’ favorites change annually. ‘Every year is different,’ Tahi says. ‘We’re grateful for what Te Urewera provides, and we adapt to what’s flowering.’
So, could 'bee glue' be the next big thing in natural health? And what does this mean for Māori land trusts and sustainable practices? Is propolis a hidden treasure, or are we placing too much hope in a sticky substance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is just getting started.
