New Zealanders rejoice at end of 'marmageddon'

The chronic Marmite shortage began when the nation's only Marmite factory was damaged in the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, halting production of the spread.u00a0

The factory was supposed to re-open in mid-2012 but the work ran behind schedule, leaving New Zealanders including Prime Minister John Key complaining about the lack of Marmite.

At the height of the crisis, jars of Marmite, which is an acquired taste exchanged hands for up to NZ$80 (Rs 3,570) on internet auction sites.

Food company Sanitarium said the factory was now finally back up and running, allowing supplies to resume. "Marmite is back on supermarket shelves across NZ," it said on its Facebook page.

"Thanks for not freaking out and for waiting patiently for the black gold's return. It's back and now it's time to celebrate!"
"I'm very happy," said shopper Robyn Lonergan. "I tried the other alternatives but nothing beats marmite."
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