1934
NZ Honey Ltd began operations in earnest in 1934, claiming the control of 75% of the Dominion’s production. Price cutting continued, however, on the local market.
The 1933/34 honey season had been relatively disappointing, with unselttled summer conditions. With many producers having to pay back the over advances from the HPA from previous years’ exports, financial resources for many beekeepers were stretched.
The 21st Annual Conference was held in Wellington on 10 to 12 July. Discussions were held on the need to regulate local prices and on a proposed registration fee for beekeepers to fund both part time AFB inspectors for the Department of Agriculture and to fund aspects of the NBA’s organisation.
Mr CA Pope (Springburn) was re-elected as president with Mr WW Nelson (Otorohanga) re-elected as Vice President. Executive were Mr W Watson (Geraldine), Mr PA Hillary (Tuakau), Mr WG Short (Fielding) and Mr L Irwin (Winton).
The final payout for the 1933/34 crop was 4 5/8 d per pound for top quality. The first payments for the 1934/35 season were set at 4 d with an assured prospect of reaching 4 5/8 d per pound.
During the year the 600 tons of honey held in London by the HPA (in liquidation) as well as the 258 tons exported by the Honey Control Board was sold into that market.