Black Shepherd Apiaries

About Us

Hive to Home – Pure, Award-Winning Honey from the Heart of the Waikato



Black Shepherd Apiaries is a boutique, family-owned honey business based in rural Waikato, founded by husband and wife team Ben and Robyn Stinson. With over 15 years of hands-on beekeeping experience, we proudly manage every part of the process ourselves—from hive to home.



Our focus is on producing small-batch, premium quality honey that reflects the purity and biodiversity of New Zealand’s landscape. We’re deeply committed to ethical beekeeping practices, sustainability, and transparency, and every jar is carefully extracted, packed, and labeled on-site by our team.



Our award-winning range includes Manuka, Rewarewa, and Clover honeys, as well as handmade beeswax candles and seasonal limited editions. We’re passionate about educating the community on the importance of bees, supporting other local businesses, and keeping the story behind our products honest and personal.



Black Shepherd Apiaries is named in honour of our late black German Shepherd, Pebbles—our original companion in the field and a constant reminder of loyalty, protection, and purpose.



We’re proud to be part of the Waikato business community and excited to connect, collaborate, and grow with fellow Chamber members.



Learn more at: www.blackshepherd.co.nz

Follow us on Instagram: @blackshepherdapiaries