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

Staff Profile: Brad Stevens

With more than 25 years in the kiwifruit industry, Brad Stevens leads Hill Labs' Bay of Plenty Branch, overseeing kiwifruit sampling and maturity testing while supporting teams to deliver accurate, timely results.
  16 Nov 2026

Connecting at the Red Meat Sector Conference

New Zealand's red meat sector remains one of the country's most important export industries, generating billions of dollars in export earnings each year and making a significant contribution to regional economies, employment and New Zealand's global reputation for high-quality food production. With strong international demand and growing opportunities in key markets, the sector continues to play a critical role in supporting New Zealand's economic growth and prosperity.
  09 Nov 2026

One Year On: Building Mould Testing Capability at Hill Labs

Just over a year ago, Hill Labs expanded its environmental testing services with the introduction of mould analysis. Since then, we've worked alongside consultants, assessors, hygienists, remediation specialists and property professionals across New Zealand, helping their investigations into moisture-related issues, assess mould contamination in indoor environments, and support remediation projects.
  09 Nov 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.