New Zealand Earthquake

Millennium & Copthorne Hotels New Zealand (NZX: MCK) makes the following statement in respect of the earthquake in Christchurch today:A magnitude 6.3 earthquake has struck Christchurch this afternoon. The quake, apparently a lot shallower than the 7.1 quake last September, has caused extensive damage to buildings in the Christchurch Business District. Fatalities and injuries have been reported as a result of buildings collapsing. There have also been several strong aftershocks.We believe that all guests and staff from all three of our CBD hotels (Millennium Hotel Christchurch, Copthorne Hotel Christchurch City, Copthorne Hotel Christchurch Central) have been safely evacuated. Cordons have been put in place around the city centre and we are investigating what we can do for our guests together with Civil Defence. Copthorne Hotel Commodore Christchurch Airport has not been affected.It is too early to know what the extent of the damage to the hotels is. Assessments will be carried out once it is safe to do so.We will update the situation once we have further and better information. Our thoughts are with our guests and staff at this difficult time.ENDSIssued by Millennium & Copthorne Hotels New Zealand LtdAny inquiries please contact:B K Chiu, Managing DirectorMillennium & Copthorne Hotels New Zealand Ltd(09) 913 8058