NZ avocado growers gain FernMark export licence
New Zealand avocado growers have received a major boost by securing a collective FernMark Licence for their exports.
An innovative tourism business located in Katikati, is breaking new ground by offering tours of a working avocado orchard.
Co-founded by Tim Rosamond and Michele Ricou, Avocado Tours offers visitors a unique opportunity to step into the world of avocados and discover the journey from tree to toast.
With avocado consumption on the rise, Avocado Tours NZ aims to provide an informative and enjoyable experience for avocado enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.
The guided tours offer a first-hand look at the workings of a fully operational avocado orchard.
Co-founder Tim Rosamond says the company’s goal is to introduce visitors to the world of avocados and “showcase the beauty and wonder of an avocado orchard”.
“We want to provide an educational and unforgettable experience that will leave our guests with a deeper appreciation for this incredible fruit,” says Rosamond.
Led by Rosamond himself, guests will embark on a journey through the orchard, gaining an in-depth understanding of everything from avocado cultivation and harvesting to the intricate of getting the fruit from tree to consumer.
“We believe that avocados are a sustainable and versatile superfood with a rich history,” he says. “By sharing this knowledge and passion with visitors, we hope to contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation for avocados and their role in helping us all live healthier lives.”
Jacqui Knight, promotions manager for Katch Katikati says her organization is delighted to visitors to Katikati can experience a tour of a working avocado orchard.
“As the Avocado Capital of the country, we receive a lot of interest from people wanting to learn not only more about the humble avocado but to see where and how they grow,” she says.
Tours run twice daily, seven days a week and include commentary, hands-on activities and demonstrations, and the chance to taste and sample avocado treats.
According to the most recent Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey, farmer confidence has inched higher, reaching its second highest reading in the last decade.
From 1 October, new livestock movement restrictions will be introduced in parts of Central Otago dealing with infected possums spreading bovine TB to livestock.
Phoebe Scherer, a technical manager from the Bay of Plenty, has won the 2025 Young Grower of the Year national title.
The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) celebrated the best of the best at the 2025 Fencing Industry Awards, providing the opportunity to honour both rising talent and industry stalwarts.
Award-winning boutique cheese company, Cranky Goat Ltd has gone into voluntary liquidation.
As an independent review of the National Pest Management Plan for TB finds the goal of complete eradication by 2055 is still valide, feedback is being sought on how to finish the job.
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