Dunedin customers are warned of shortages

Work at Foodstuffs' South Island distribution centre has been ramped up to deal with extra demand. Photo / Martin Sykes

Dunedin is being warned of possible shortages at supermarkets as emergency supplies are shipped to Christchurch.

Work at Foodstuffs' South Island distribution centre has been ramped up to deal with extra demand.

The company, which owns Pak 'N Save, New World, and Four Square, has warned customers to expect shortages of some items, as it is focused on maintaining basic supplies. Three of its Christchurch distribution centres were seriously damaged, one so badly it cannot be used until extensive repairs are carried out.

Foodstuffs South Island chief executive Steve Anderson said volumes at South Dunedin's Midland St distribution centre had increased to meet demand.

Extra staff had been drafted in to help from Christchurch and Dunedin. Maintaining basic supplies, such as bread, was the priority.

Luxury items may become unavailable in coming weeks.

Progressive Enterprises, which owns Countdown and Foodtown, said its Auckland distribution centre was supplying the South Island since the quake.

"We also ask customers to bear with us while we work to ensure all products are available."

- Otago Daily Times