The high avocado prices seen in some NZ supermarkets are unusual for this time of year, although it is coming towards the end of the avocado season. The bad weather caused by Cyclone Gabrielle hit Northland and Bay of Plenty and had a severe effect on a lot of the avocado plantations in those regions.
According to Wonky Box co-founder Angus Simms, the avocado season has come to a slightly early finish for some growers: "Right now, what we're seeing is the prices increase just based on the amount of supply we have domestically at moment." Weather events were causing seasonal uncertainty as to crop availability, he said.
The apple supply was likely to tighten up towards of the end of the year, he said. Apples were typically harvested once a year in March or April, but the recent severe weather in Hawke's Bay would lead to a lack of supply later in the year.
Source: rnz.co.nz