Natadola's Buzzing Bees
At InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, our Honey Bee Project is an on-property programme that supports the health and wellbeing of our resort gardens and flowering landscape. Led by our resident beekeeper, Simione Neirube, the programme connects responsible hive management with guest experiences across dining and wellbeing.
FAST FACTS
Programme established: 1 May 2019
Programme restarted: May 2022
Bee breed: Cross Italian breed
Hives on property: 21
Estimated bees per hive: Around 60,000
Beekeeping team: Four trained beekeepers
Hive inspections: Fortnightly
Typical harvest: Around 50 litres every three months on average, June to November often exceeds this
Annual harvest: Around 200 litres per year
THE STORY BEHIND NATADOLA BAY HONEY
The Honey Bee Project was first established in May 2019 and restarted in May 2022 with a more systematic approach to hive monitoring, maintenance, and management. Since the restart, the team has observed improvements including increased honey production, enhanced colony reproduction, and stronger on-property capability through training.
HOW WE CARE FOR THE HIVES
Our hives are managed by a small trained team. Inspections are conducted fortnightly to assess the condition of the hive, check for pests and disease, and monitor brood health. Seasonality plays a role in honey yield. Production is often higher from June to November, supported by favourable conditions and flowering sources across the resort.
WHAT OUR BEES SUPPORT AROUND THE RESORT
Bees support a diverse range of flowering plants across the property, contributing to the vibrancy of the resort landscape. One of the key flowering sources around Natadola is the red and yellow ixora, which blooms across the resort.
HARVESTING AND HYGIENE
Natadola Bay Honey is harvested and stored in its raw form, maintaining its natural quality. All equipment used for extraction is thoroughly cleaned to maintain hygiene standards. Beekeepers are fully suited to prevent contamination of the honey, and the extraction area is kept clean, dry, and free from dust, insects, and animals.
WHERE GUESTS CAN EXPERIENCE NATADOLA BAY HONEY
Our honey is distributed operationally to Spa InterContinental and the main kitchen. The Spa uses it for treatments, and the kitchen incorporates it into pastries and breakfast offerings. Guests can also join our Bee-Happy Experience, which runs about four times per month on average, weather dependent.
LEARNING AND CAPABILITY BUILDING
There are ongoing plans to conduct onsite training focused on by-products such as beeswax, supporting skills development and broader utilisation.
SAFETY NOTE
Some experiences may be weather dependent. If you have allergies or sensitivities, please speak with our team before participating in any honey or apiary-related experience.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When did the Honey Bee Project start?
The project was established on 1 May 2019 and restarted in May 2022.
How often are the hives inspected?
Inspections are conducted fortnightly, including checks for hive condition, pests and disease, and brood health.
How much honey is harvested at Natadola Bay?
On average, around 50 litres every three months, with June to November often exceeding this. Annual harvest is around 200 litres.
What plants benefit from pollination at the resort?
A diverse range of flowering plants across the property benefit from bee pollination, including ixora flowers.
Do you partner with local beekeeping organisations?
There is no formal partnership currently in place.
Last updated: [14th April 2026]