Representatives of the largest avocado growing nations are visiting New Zealand this week for an international industry conference. New Zealand does not import any avocados, relying on what growers here supply, which can put pressure on prices of the seasonally grown fruit.

In May, Statistics New Zealand reported a small harvest had resulted in a record 37 percent rise in the average price of a 200 gr avocado to $5.06, compared to $3.69 in April. There was even a spate of avocado thefts.

Mexico, Peru and Chile have shown interest in supplying avocados to New Zealand. But while negotiations are ongoing, the amount of avocados being grown here is increasing rapidly and that should help ease prices and supply in the future.

Tvnz.co.nz reports that now there now are 20 percent more new plantings of avocado orchards, particularly in Northland.