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S'okay ... when your friends' chickens ... two years from now ... are starting to slow down from age, yours will still be going strong from a late start and a gentle first winter.

It just occurred to me that it's nearly winter where you are. Your birds are soon to start laying, but some breeds slow down a little in winter ... this is not a bad thing in your situation, they'll start laying, slow down a little while getting used to it, then I'll bet they'll be laying more...

They are very happy to mix! (even though there can be political issues). Some bigger breeds may bully smaller breeds, but normally they'll all get along. But you want to feed meat birds differently than layers

They need oyster shells, but that is not the same as grit. Since your birds forage, they are probably picking up enough grit along the way. My girls LOVE their mealworms!

I'd recommend a dual purpose breed if you casually raising for your own needs. Saves a lot of trouble keeping one flock together, I'd think. I don't know the size of the NZ Red Shaver, but if you don't think they're big enough to eat, try Black Australorps ... they are fantastic layers, and...

If your friend is correct and they are 22 weeks old NOW, they can start laying at any time. The breed can start laying anywhere from 18 to 28 weeks, and if there growing conditions have been ... well ... less than ideal, they may start a little late. If their shape is 'off' it doesn't mean that...