New Zealand avocado production is forecast to more than treble to 58,000 tonnes by 2010, according to US agriculture watchdogs.

If realised, this would make the crop one of the fastest growing sectors within NZ horticulture.

Much has already been achieved. Output has risen steadily year-on-year and is expected to amount to a record 17,000t during the 2000-03 season. This is indicative of new plantings coming on stream – especially in the Western Bay of Plenty – many of which have yet to reach full bearing status. At the same time, there has been a marked rise in yields per hectare, particularly for Hass.

Some 60 per cent of the crop is exported. This is projected at 10,450t in 2002/03 but is likely to jump to 44,000t by the end of this decade. Most is destined for the US and Australia although outlets in Europe have been earmarked for long-term expansion.