Media Release

Chinese Delegation Studies Huntly East Underground Safety Systems

7 October 2005

Following briefings with the Ministry for Economic Development, Crown Minerals and Occupational Safety and Health Division of the Department of Labour in Wellington, a Chinese coal mine safety delegation visited Solid Energy's Huntly East underground mine recently.

The nine strong contingent was in New Zealand to learn more about this country's coal mine safety systems. Solid Energy managers at Huntly East Mine discussed in depth the supervision, continuous training and risk management systems that have contributed to East Mine's very good safety record.

Led by Mr Tiechui Zhao, China's Minister for State Administration of Coal Mine Safety, members of the Beijing-based group represented regional, state and national levels of mine safety responsibility. The group mingled briefly with local miners before their departure from Auckland.

For further information contact:

Vicki Blyth
Communications Director
Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd
Tel: 03 345 6000
Mobile: 021 670 250

Location http://www.coalnz.com/index.cfm/1,209,618,0,html