Kiwi-made doll recalled

The distributor of Mary Lou wooden dolls has launched a partial recall, after independent researchers found some of the beads on the teething toys could be pulled off.

Distributor Brightway Products was recalling the dolls sold since June 1 2008, with either red or blue bodies, in blue Mary Lou-branded packaging.

The Commerce Commission began its investigation into the classic New Zealand-made toy after receiving a complaint the small wooden beads making up a doll's arms came off its body.

Further testing found all tested samples failed to meet the commission's product safety standard for children's toys.

The popular toddlers' toy has been used as a teething aid since the 1960s and was made in New Zealand.

The distributor immediately launched a full recall, offering consumers a full refund if they returned their dolls by August 31.

Consumers could return their dolls, to Brightway Products at 9 Crosbie Road, Pukekohe.

- NZPA