Widespread Energy advises start of Kotuku exploration bore

New Zealand Exchange Limited
P.O. Box 2959
Wellington

9 March 2010

Dear Sir,

Widespread Energy advises start of Kotuku exploration bore

Widespread Energy is pleased to advise that the drill rig has arrived at our drill site on our 100% held petroleum exploration permit (PEP 38526), near Kotuku, onshore West Coast near Lake Brunner.

The rig is expected to spud later today and reach target depth in approximately one week.

The intention is to drill a 250m deep bore which will allow Widespread to confirm the shape of the Kotuku anticline, recover samples of the rock strata and determine the nature of any fluids contained within it.

For and on behalf of the Board,

Chris D Castle

Onekaka, 9 March 2010