Western Bay of Plenty Police are seeking the rightful owners of more than 500 avocados recovered at a Bethlehem business address on Christmas Eve.

An off-duty officer spotted two men with a car boot full of avocados and Police are satisfied the fruit is stolen, says a police spokesperson.

"A 39-year-old Waharoa man has been charged in relation to the theft.

"Police have not received any theft reports which could relate to the recovered fruit, and we would like to identify where they were stolen from."

If you have any information which could assist us, please call Tauranga Police Station on 07 577 4300.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.