Everything you need to know about egg prices in NZ...

When it comes to the cost of eggs in New Zealand, it's not just about the price tag – it's about the quality and care that goes into every single egg! Here at eg., we're passionate about providing Kiwis with the finest Free Range eggs while keeping our prices competitive. So, why don't we crack open the details on egg prices?

Types of eggs and their prices

Not all eggs are created equal, and that's why you'll find a range of options and prices in NZ:

● Colony-caged eggs: Way back in 2012, the New Zealand government implemented a ban on battery-caged eggs. Farms were given a decade to switch their methods, with many moving to the similarly tightly packed colony-caged model. These types of eggs are typically the most affordable option – if you can find them. Most major supermarkets have banned colony- cage eggs from their stock, meaning you only buy the more considerate barn-laid and Free Range eggs.

● Barn-laid eggs: Barn-laid eggs come from hens that are kept indoors but have more space to move around. Barn-laid eggs are moderately priced as they balance cost with improved animal welfare. Hens can exhibit more natural behaviours, which can lead to a slightly better-quality egg.

● Free Range eggs: Free Range eggs come from hens that have access to the outdoors. This freedom enables the hens to express natural behaviours– scratching, stretching, and basking in the sun– and it shows in the quality of the eggs. Free Range eggs are priced higher than cage and barn-laid eggs due to the increased costs of providing ample outdoor space and maintaining a healthy environment, but we promise it's worth it! 

● Organic eggs: Organic eggs are produced by hens fed on organic feed and with access to outdoor spaces. These eggs are generally the most expensive due to the stringent requirements for organic certification, which include the use of non-GMO feed, no synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, and ensuring the hens have a natural lifestyle.

In terms of where eg. sits, we are working hard every day to lead by example and raise even the Free Range standards in NZ! We already exceed several of the Free Range standards with less hens per hectare outside and less hens per sqm inside so they have waaayyy more space to sleep, lay and play. With access to the sheltered conservatory for dust bathing and spacious roaming pastures for grazing and foraging this ensures our hens lovingly lay extremely high quality eggs! Watch this space for an Organic eg. range coming soon too...!

What affects the average price of eggs?

As of 2024, the average price of a dozen eggs is anywhere from $9 to $15, depending on the type of egg and where you shop. What goes into these prices? Well, it's not just about the chicken or the egg. There are a few key factors at play:

● Production costs
The cost of producing eggs includes the price of feed, labour, and maintaining the health and well-being of the hens. High-quality feed ensures the hens are healthy and productive but also contributes to higher production costs. Similarly, ensuring the hens have a clean and comfortable living environment requires significant labour and resources.

● Seasonal changes
Egg prices can fluctuate with the seasons. For instance, during colder months, hens may lay fewer eggs, which can lead to a temporary increase in the price. During the peak laying season, the price might drop as supply increases.

● Market competition
With numerous egg producers in the market, prices are influenced by the amount of
competition. Farmers have to stay competitive with their pricing to attract consumers, which can sometimes result in price adjustments to stay ahead of the game.

● Rules and regulations
Since the 2012 government ban on battery-caged eggs and the later supermarket refusals on colony-caged eggs, many egg producers have either left the market or had to switch their entire business model, leading to massive shortages of eggs across the country– and rising prices overall.

● Transportation and packaging
The logistics of transporting eggs from farms to stores and the type of packaging used can also affect the price. Eco-friendly or specialised packaging may cost more, and longer transportation routes can add to the overall cost.

So, there you have it– the inside scoop on egg prices in NZ!

At eg., we're all about letting our hens live their best possible lives while laying the perfect eggs for you. Our Free Range eggs come in trays of 20 for only $15, so you can enjoy the best quality without breaking the bank. So go ahead, crack a smile, and enjoy your eg. eggs today!