VIEWPOINTS ON COAL MINING

John Brown -- Mine Company Manager
"I know that our mining creates a large hole in the ground but we are committed to put the land back to its previous condition after we have finished. Often we will even improve the area, so what is the problem?"

Tama Tikirangi -- Local miner
"Can't these people see how valuable the mine is to the community? It provides us with jobs that are hard to get in this area that enables me to feed and clothe my family."

Elsie Turner -- Local resident
"I do worry about some of the problems that mining causes us. I fear that my house may collapse into some of the old mining shafts as has happened in some places. the way my house shakes with the blasting -- I'm sure it isn't safe"

Roger Lane -- Forest and Bird society
"Why do we insist on mining coal when it causes such pollution? Have you ever seen how black some of the local streams are? The poor birds still rely on this as a water source and goodness knows what it is doing to them"

Jade Gillon -- Local councillor
"We only issue consents to the company if they can assure us that they will not harm the environment, although I agree mistakes can happen. Such strict regulations are in place that the effects are at least minimised. If anything they enhance our local area and make it more attractive to look at."

Tina Maloke --Local nurse
I'm not sure what to think about the mining company. They have certainly helped put our town on the map and there is more to do today. At the same time I do worry about our health. All that dust gets everywhere and I notice more cases of asthma since the mine set up."

Richard Gill -- Government trade official
"Coal is an important export for New Zealand and that helps our Balance of Payments. It is important for us to continue to mine so that all of the country can benefit from the profit it brings."