At Waitahanui Apiaries, we know that choosing mānuka honey can feel a little overwhelming at first. If you have ever looked at different jars and wondered what 100+, 350+, 550+, or 800+ MGO actually means, you are not alone.
We are often asked about the difference between strengths and how to choose the right one. The good news is that it does not need to be complicated. Once you understand what MGO means and how each option fits into everyday use, it becomes much easier to find the right jar for you.
As producers of certified organic raw honey here in New Zealand, we believe in keeping things simple, honest, and high quality. This guide is designed to help you choose the Waitahanui mānuka honey that best suits your needs.
What does MGO mean?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in mānuka honey. The MGO rating helps indicate the concentration of this compound in each jar.
In simple terms, the higher the MGO rating, the higher the concentration. That is why you will see a range of strengths across our mānuka honey collection.
For our customers, this makes it easier to compare options and choose a jar that suits both their preferences and the way they want to enjoy it.
Why does Waitahanui offer different MGO strengths?
At Waitahanui Apiaries, we know that no two customers are quite the same.
Some people are looking for a beautiful everyday mānuka honey to enjoy regularly. Others want a more premium jar to keep on hand, to gift, or to choose as a higher strength option for their pantry.
Our range has been selected to give people that flexibility, while still delivering the same commitment to certified organic quality and raw honey standards that sit behind every jar we produce.
Whether you are new to mānuka honey or already know the strength you enjoy, our range gives you the freedom to choose what feels right for you.
A simple guide to the Waitahanui mānuka honey range
100+ MGO
Our 100+ MGO mānuka honey is a wonderful place to start.
It is a versatile everyday option that works beautifully as part of your regular routine. Many people enjoy it in warm drinks, over breakfast, in smoothies, or simply by the spoonful. If you are new to mānuka honey or want a quality jar for everyday use, this is a great choice.
350+ MGO
Our 350+ MGO mānuka honey offers a step up for those wanting something a little more premium.
This strength suits people who already enjoy mānuka honey and are looking for a stronger option while still keeping it practical for regular use. It is a lovely choice for customers wanting a richer pantry staple or a slightly more elevated jar.
550+ MGO
Our 550+ MGO mānuka honey is a premium option for those looking for a higher strength jar.
It is often chosen by customers who want something more concentrated and more special. It also makes a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates premium New Zealand honey and the care that goes into producing it.
800+ MGO
Our 800+ MGO mānuka honey is at the top end of the Waitahanui range.
This is a premium high strength option for those who know what they are looking for and want one of the most elevated jars we offer. Whether it is chosen for gifting or personal preference, it is a beautiful example of the quality and depth of our mānuka honey range.
How to choose the right Waitahanui jar for you
The best place to start is to think about how you want to enjoy your honey.
If you are looking for an everyday jar to use regularly, our 100+ MGO is a great entry point. If you would like something a little more premium, 350+ MGO offers a nice step up. For those wanting a stronger or more gift-worthy option, 550+ MGO and 800+ MGO are beautiful choices.
There is no single right answer. Choosing the right mānuka honey comes down to your personal preference, your budget, and the kind of jar you want to keep in your pantry.
The Waitahanui difference
At Waitahanui Apiaries, our honey reflects more than just a label on a jar. It reflects our commitment to producing certified organic raw honey with care, integrity, and respect for the land, the bees, and the people who choose our products.
We believe quality starts long before the honey is poured. It is found in the way the bees are cared for, the standards we uphold, and the pride we take in offering honey that feels genuine from hive to jar.
That is what sits behind every Waitahanui product, whether you choose 100+ MGO or 800+ MGO.
Find the right mānuka honey for your pantry
Choosing mānuka honey should feel enjoyable, not confusing.
Once you understand what the MGO numbers mean, it becomes much easier to choose a jar that suits your needs. Whether you are starting with an everyday option or selecting something more premium, our range is here to help you find the right fit.
Explore the Waitahanui Apiaries mānuka honey collection and find the jar that feels right for you.
Frequently asked questions
How should I store mānuka honey?
Mānuka honey is best stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. There is no need to refrigerate it. Keeping the lid sealed properly will help maintain its quality and natural texture.
Does mānuka honey crystallise over time?
Yes, honey can naturally change in texture over time, and this is completely normal. Because Waitahanui honey is raw, slight thickening or crystallisation can happen. This is a natural characteristic of real honey and does not mean there is anything wrong with it.
Is raw mānuka honey different from processed honey?
Raw mānuka honey is handled more gently to preserve its natural character. Many people prefer raw honey because it feels closer to how it is found in the hive, with all the richness, texture, and authenticity that comes with it.
Can mānuka honey be used in food and drinks?
Yes, mānuka honey is a beautiful addition to everyday food and drinks. It can be stirred into warm water or tea, drizzled over porridge or yoghurt, spread on toast, or used in simple recipes when you want to add natural sweetness with depth of flavour.
Is Waitahanui mānuka honey a good gift?
Absolutely. A jar of premium mānuka honey makes a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates quality, wellness, and beautifully produced New Zealand products. Higher MGO options can be especially well suited for gifting when you want something that feels a little more elevated.