More Than Just Manuka: New Zealand’s Honey Heritage

When it comes to New Zealand honey, Manuka tends to steal the spotlight. While it’s renowned worldwide for its medicinal qualities and bold flavour, New Zealand has so much more to offer in the honey world. 

The Gillard Family, while producing high-quality Manuka honey, also crafts another gem: their Raw Native Bush Honey, a lesser-known delight that reflects New Zealand’s rich, untouched landscapes and diverse flora.

For the Gillard Family, honey production isn’t just about following trends. It's about embracing the essence of New Zealand’s native beauty. Nathan Gillard, who grew up surrounded by the country’s forests and coastlines, brings a deep respect for the land to his work. “I feel very lucky to have grown up in New Zealand and for my kids to be doing the same. Growing up and now back living in Palmy is great as it’s very central, close to beaches, bush, and the bigger centres if needed,” he explains. This connection to New Zealand’s diverse environments inspires everything the Gillards do in their apiaries.

While the family has a strong reputation for their premium Manuka honey, which highlights the distinctive antibacterial and medicinal qualities of the Manuka flower, they are equally passionate about their Raw Native Bush Honey. Sourced from native flora in pristine forests, this honey offers a smooth, earthy sweetness that’s worlds apart from the boldness of Manuka. It’s a taste that speaks to the unique biodiversity of New Zealand, capturing hints of plants like rewarewa, rata, and kamahi, and celebrating the subtleties that make each region’s honey distinct.

Yet, challenges abound in the honey industry, especially with increased overseas demand and rising production costs. The Gillard Family, however, remains committed to ethical beekeeping and sustainable practices, ensuring their honey doesn’t just taste good but is good for the land. “Kiwis are realising the need to take ownership for the future of New Zealand,” Nathan notes. By maintaining eco-friendly practices, the Gillards are committed to supporting New Zealand’s natural beauty and producing honey that preserves the integrity of local ecosystems.

For those seeking a taste of New Zealand that’s both familiar and new, the Gillard Honey's Raw Native Bush Honey is an ideal way to explore the country’s unique landscapes, with every spoonful offering a sweet, earthy homage to New Zealand’s flora. Manuka may be the star, but honey lovers will find something equally special in New Zealand’s native bush blends—a taste both close to the land and crafted by the dedication of beekeepers like the Gillard Family.