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Mainland Poultry Locks Down 40% of NZ Eggs After Bird-Flu

7/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mainland Poultry CEO John McKay said the company moved its free-range hens into temporary housing as a precaution after a second bird-flu case was confirmed.
The firm placed hundreds of thousands of free-range chickens in lockdown, representing roughly 40 % of New Zealand’s egg supply.
Woolworths spokesperson said the retailer has established supply-chain contingencies and that egg and poultry supplies remain stable.
Woolworths urged shoppers to continue buying eggs and poultry as usual.

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Story summary

Mainland Poultry CEO John McKay said the company moved its free-range hens into temporary housing as a precaution after a second bird-flu case was confirmed.
The firm placed hundreds of thousands of free-range chickens in lockdown, representing roughly 40 % of New Zealand’s egg supply.
Woolworths spokesperson said the retailer has established supply-chain contingencies and that egg and poultry supplies remain stable.
Woolworths urged shoppers to continue buying eggs and poultry as usual.