In the 2024-25 season, export volumes of New Zealand avocados increased 183 per cent to 3.7 million trays, with 3.8 million trays sold into the domestic market. The New Zealand market generated $62 million, with overall export revenue rising 400 per cent to $102 million in the year to 30 June 2025. This marks a meaningful realignment to balance domestic vs. international supply with the 2023-24 season export revenue at only $20 million.
The 2025-26 season is looking promising with early estimates forecasting an increase in total volumes according to New Zealand Avocado.
Growers, packers, and exporters are preparing for an earlier export window to supply over 16 international markets this season.
"Fruit quality is looking good, with maturity levels tracking well to align with seasonal market requirements," says CEO Brad Siebert.
After two years of poor weather and cyclones, growers are looking forward to a better season.
New Zealand will target markets across Asia as well as North America, with export revenue to Canada and the US growing beyond NZ$4mn after only two years of supplying the region.
© NZ Avocados
"Despite growing competition in key export markets, New Zealand avocado exporters have made steady progress in diversifying their market reach. The industry continues to expand its footprint, with increasing volumes being exported to a broader range of destinations. This diversification strategy remains a core focus as global demand grows," he says.
Per capita avocado consumption in Asia is still low, and there remains significant potential for growth. "As global demand for avocados continues to rise, Asian markets are expected to follow suit. This creates a compelling opportunity for the industry to expand supply into these markets as awareness and demand build over time," says Siebert.
"New Zealand avocados are uniquely positioned to supply premium fruit during the off-season of major producers, offering a valuable counter-seasonal supply option to Asian markets. What truly sets avocados from New Zealand apart is their consistently high eating quality, supported by industry-wide standards for food safety, sustainability, and traceability," says Siebert.
"NZ Avocado has recently secured the first-ever industry coalition FernMark Licence for the avocado sector, alongside all participating exporters. This official country-of-origin mark assures trade partners and consumers that New Zealand avocados are grown to the highest standards."
About 1600 growers contribute to avocado production in New Zealand. The Bay of Plenty remains the leading region, producing around 57 per cent of the country's avocados, with many smaller orchards. Northland accounts for close to 34 per cent of production, with a number of larger-scale orchards.
For more information:
Rose Fallow
New Zealand Avocado
Tel: +64 7 571 6147
[email protected]
www.nzavocado.co.nz
