The 10^th World Avocado Congress (WACNZ2023) is happening in our own neighbourhood on 2-5 April next year at the Aotea Centre in Auckland, New Zealand. Located in the heart of Auckland City, the Aotea Centre (291-297 Queen Street, Auckland CBD) houses New Zealand’s largest modern tiered auditorium, seating more than 2,000 people over three levels. The congress promises to be the highlight of the 2023 calendar for members of the international avocado industry. If you are not harvesting at that time, we recommend that you register to attend. NZ Avocados are the Congress organisers and interest in the event so far has been extremely positive with more than 500 attendees already registered to take part.

Congress Theme

The Congress theme is “Respectful”. The theme of the Congress acknowledges the global requirements for sustainability. They acknowledge that we need to have:

• Respect for people
• Respect for environment
• Respect for our future

The Congress will showcase New Zealand’s leadership in avocado growing, sustainable environmental practice, beautiful orchards, ethical work treatment and great tasting avocados.

Programme

The academic programme is being overseen by the Local Scientific and Local Marketing Organising Committees and will include keynote speakers, plenary sessions, poster sessions and three breakout sessions covering a wide range of topics (see the table provided). These topics cover the whole avocado value chain and will include fundamental and applied science and technology. Sustainability will be a key theme, as many in the industry are moving to improve the green credentials of their avocados.

The scientific and marketing committees have developed programme outlines and have sought abstracts from researchers, innovators and movers and shakers.

Stay up to date about the World Avocado Congress by visiting their official website at: https://www.wacnz2023.com/

Plan your holiday around Congress attendance

New Zealand is a country full of natural beauty and attractions. If you can attend the Congress why not also plan a holiday around it. Make Auckland your starting point and strike out from there. From beautiful scenery, adventure tourism, vibrant cuisine and much more, there is something for everyone.

Auckland View from Mt Eden

This article appeared in the Spring 2022 issue of Talking Avocados magazine.