Manuka Honey NZ — Health Benefits, UMF Ratings & Buying Guide (2026)

Manuka honey is New Zealand's most famous natural health product — and for good reason. It has unique antibacterial properties not found in any other honey.

What Makes Manuka Honey Special?

• Contains methylglyoxal (MGO) — a naturally occurring compound with antibacterial activity
• The higher the MGO, the stronger the antibacterial effect
• Only produced by bees that pollinate the Mānuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) — native to NZ
• Tested and certified to guarantee authenticity

Understanding UMF & MGO Ratings

Proven Health Benefits

• Wound healing: Used in medical-grade wound dressings worldwide
• Sore throat relief: Natural antibacterial soothes and fights infection
• Digestive health: Helps with acid reflux, stomach ulcers, IBS
• Immune support: Natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
• Skin care: Applied topically for acne, eczema, and burns

Raw vs Regular Manuka Honey

• Raw Manuka: Unpasteurised, unprocessed — retains maximum beneficial enzymes and nutrients
• Regular Manuka: Pasteurised (heated) — longer shelf life but reduced enzyme activity
• Steens Raw Manuka is minimally processed to preserve the whole honeycomb goodness

How to Spot Fake Manuka Honey

1. Look for the UMF or MGO certification on the label
2. Check it's packed in New Zealand (not just "product of NZ")
3. Buy from trusted NZ retailers
4. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is

Shop Manuka Honey at Action Outdoors

Browse: Manuka Health and Steens Raw Manuka. Call 09 820 8023.