American Foulbrood (AFB) Testing

American Fouldbrood(AFB) is a notifiable disease in New Zealand and is managed by the AFB National Pest Management Agency. Testing for the presence of AFB is an overseas market access requirement (OMAR) for China, one of New Zealand’s largest markets for Mānuka Honey.  

What is American Foulbrood? 

American Foulbrood is a bacterial disease that has detrimental effects on hive health and serious financial implications if it is not closely monitored by the beekeeper. The disease affects the growth of bee brood which over time will weaken and kill the hive. The disease is passed from hive to hive by both robbing and poor beekeeping practices.

What is the turnaround time for American Foulbrood Testing? 

Results for routine testing are available the next working day and the same working day for urgent testing from receipt of sample. 

Contact Us  Read the technical note  Download the honey testing brochure

Latest Stories

ANZAC Hours 2026

A reminder that several of our laboratories will be closed over the upcoming ANZAC holiday. The following labs will be closed on Saturday 25th April and Monday 27th April. READ MORE.
  22 Apr 2026

Staff Profile: Samuel Brooks - Building High Performing Teams to Help Protect Public Health

Samuel Brooks leads the team at Hill Labs Inspection & Certification, working alongside specialists who help organisations meet regulatory requirements and protect public health across New Zealand. He enjoys building strong, high‑performing teams, growing the business in a sustainable way, and playing his part in protecting New Zealand’s reputation with trading partners around the world.
  15 Apr 2026

Behind Every Tick: The Hill Labs Inspection & Certification Team

Operating at the intersection of regulation, people, and practical improvement, the Inspection & Certification team supports customers to meet today’s compliance requirements while building capability for the future, with trust, accountability, and collaboration at the heart of everything they do.
  09 Apr 2026

What our customers have to say

"We've always found them to be responsive in getting results back and giving advice on problems we might be facing."

Andrew Hutchinson, Technical Manager, Turners & Growers

"We strongly recommend Hill Labs as a sound testing service provider to the honey industry."

Nick Walker, Technical Manager, Egmont Honey

"Their sample registration system has made things simple and seamless - collect, scan and send!"

Mathew Bannister, Compliance Manager, First Fresh New Zealand

Accreditations

As a New Zealand accredited laboratory by International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ), Hill Labs' commitment to quality is tantamount to our overall operating philosophy. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work.