What does the people of New York think peach is in James and Giant Peach?

The people of New York in "James and the Giant Peach" do not have any opinion on peaches because they never actually encounter the giant peach! The story centers on James, who escapes into the giant peach and travels with its inhabitants, ultimately landing in New York.

The people of New York only see the peach as a giant, strange object. They have no knowledge of James or the fantastical creatures inside.

Therefore, it is impossible to say what the people of New York think about peaches based on the book.