Bee season in New Zealand runs from early spring through to late autumn. 

Bees are drawn to flowers by their colour and fragrance. Their favourite colours include blue, purple, violet, white, yellow and green - plus ultraviolet patterns that humans can’t see. Choosing plants with colours in this spectrum will help create a bee-friendly garden.

• Plant Flowers Rich in Pollen and Nectar: To keep bees buzzing around your garden, select plants that have plenty of pollen and nectar. Aim to grow a diverse mix of flowers in different shapes and sizes so something is blooming right throughout the bee season.
   
• Group Plantings to Attract More Bees: When planting, choose an open, sunny spot so bees can easily spot your flowers. Bees are more likely to visit plants that are grouped together, so planting in clusters or drifts can make a real difference.
   
• Choose Native and Bee-Friendly Plants: Native plants are a favourite food source for bees. Where you can, choose native or near-native species to help support local bee populations.
   
• Fast-Flowering Options to Get Started: If you want quick results, try Upright Rosemary or Lavender Dentata. These hardy shrubs can begin flowering within two months of planting, giving bees a food source early in the season.
   
• Long-Term Bee Magnets:For a longer-lasting approach, NZ native ornamental mānuka varieties are a top pick - bees absolutely love them. Another reliable option is Echium Fastuosum (Pride of Madeira), which thrives in dry or poor soils and produces masses of striking purple flowers. Hebes are another excellent choice and a proven bee favourite.
   
• Fill the Gaps with Annual Flowers: While you’re waiting for shrubs to establish, plant summer annuals like sunflowers, cosmos, borage, calendula, zinnias, and nasturtiums which provide a source of pollen and nectar.
   
• Don't Forget Herbs: Herbs are also very popular providing an excellent supply of nectar; such as basil, coriander, chives, lavender, lemon balm, mint, parsley rosemary sage and thyme.