National Avocado Day

National Avocado Day History

National Avocado Day is an annual observance that aims to celebrate the versatility and health benefits of avocados. This green fruit is a favourite ingredient worldwide, particularly in Mexican cuisine, and has gained popularity for its nutritional benefits such as being rich in vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. Besides being a delicious component of various dishes, avocados also serve as an important agricultural crop in many countries, including New Zealand.

In New Zealand, the avocado industry has grown exponentially in the past few decades, with the country now being a leading global producer of this fruit. The majority of avocados grown in New Zealand are of the Hass variety. Avocado farming is concentrated in the North Island, particularly in the regions of Bay of Plenty and Northland, where the climate is suitable for this unique crop. National Avocado Day holds particular significance for New Zealanders, both as a celebration of a popular food choice and as recognition of the country's growing role in the global avocado market.

National Avocado Day is observed in New Zealand through various activities that showcase the many uses and benefits of the fruit. These may include promotions in stores and restaurants, which encourage the consumption of avocados, as well as events in local communities that focus on avocado-themed dishes, cooking demonstrations, and nutritional discussions. In New Zealand, National Avocado Day is celebrated on the 31st of July each year.

National Avocado Day facts

• The global avocado market was valued at over nine billion U.S. dollars in 2021 and is forecast to reach to more than 19.9 billion U.S. dollars by 2026.
• The avocado is thought to have originated in south-central Mexico, somewhere between 7,000 and 5,000 B.C.
• A large amount of the avocados consumed in the U.S. are imported from Mexico. Avocado importation was actually banned in the U.S. up until 1997 to protect American crops from pests.
• The Hass variety makes up about 95% of the avocado production in New Zealand. This variety is known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor, and it originated in California.
• Over the past few years, the per capita consumption of avocados in New Zealand has increased, growing from around 1.5 kg per person in the mid-2000s to nearly 3.5 kg in 2020.

In the News and Trending in NZ for National Avocado Day

Top things to do in NZ for National Avocado Day

• Visit your local Chipotle. In celebration of the day they will be offering free guacamole included with your meal.
• Visit a local avocado farm or orchard. Some farms in the North Island, especially in the Bay of Plenty region, grow avocadoes and may be open for tours on National Avocado Day.
• Make an avocado-themed DIY mask or body scrub, as avocadoes have fantastic skin benefits. Utilize the nutrient-rich fruit to make a DIY face or hair mask, or whip up a body scrub to nourish your skin while you're on vacation.