Volkswagen is doing its bit for pollination with a rather unique ID.Buzz van that is really leaning into its name.
This particular ID.Buzz, affectionately named Polly the Pollinator, has been transformed into a fully functioning mobile hive and will take120,000 honeybees on a trip down the length of the North Island as part of the "Volkswagen Pollination Tour" that set out from the Clevedon Village Farmers Market this past weekend to raise awareness about the necessity of pollination.
The tour is led by local beekeeper James Green of Hidden Honey, who, alongside his two brothers, has cared for honeybees for the past eight years. The initiative involves transporting two active colonies to follow the honey flow of flowers, participating in the vital annual pollination process. Pollination is critical for much of New Zealand’s food production, contributing to items such as strawberries, apples, and coffee.
The project addresses the declining rates of pollination in parts of the country, which are linked to changing land use and the decline of flowering habitats, putting pressure on both food production and ecosystems. Mr. Green aims to share how simple actions, such as planting bee-friendly blooms, supporting local beekeepers, and creating safe spaces for pollinators, can make a difference.
"Bees aren’t just pollinators – they’re tiny gardeners of Aotearoa," said Green. "Every garden, every patch of flowers, helps our native landscapes and our food grow strong. We want Kiwis to feel that connection and see how easy it is to make a difference, one backyard at a time."
Bee welfare is a core focus of the mobile hive setup. The van's interior has been transformed into a "hive-like environment" and is climate-controlled internally to replicate natural conditions and ensure the bees remain comfortably cool, similar to a standard hive environment. It is also equipped with entry and exit tubes, allowing the 120,000 bees to safely come and go as required for pollination.
After spending a few weeks settling into their new mobile home, the bee's began their tour on October 12, 2025, at the Clevedon Village Farmers Market, and will connect with communities down the North Island, including a stop at the Whanganui farmers market on October 18, and concluding in Wellington on October 26.
At community stops, Green will hand out wildflower seeds and give people the chance to see the hives up close and learn about the role of pollinators. Following the Wellington stop, the bees will return overnight to their home farm in Clevedon.
"Bees are incredible little beings, quietly shaping our world," he said. "Following them on this journey is a way to celebrate that magic, and hopefully inspire Kiwis to plant flowers, nurture their gardens, and give a little love back to the land.
"It’s not just about bees, it’s about showing how every small action, every flower, can help our environment thrive."
