AMWU National Secretary, Dave Oliver, has written to the EPMU, the New Zealand union representing the 29 mine workers tragically killed in the second blast at the Pike River mine yesterday.

"On behalf of the AMWU National Council and AMWU members across Australia, I wish to pass our condolences to the families, workmates and fellow union members of the 29 miners tragically killed in the Pike River mine disaster," Mr Oliver wrote.

"Our union and members grieve with your union and members as one. The loss of life in any industrial accident, as we all know too well, is a tragedy. The scale of the Pike River disaster is a devastating reminder that no one can take safety at work for granted.

"All workers take risks when they go to work and all union members must continue the struggle to reduce and remove those risks.

"Our union will seek further opportunities to contribute to the memory of the Pike River miners, to ensure their legacy is one of improved safety for all workers to seek to prevent any family or community suffering a loss such as that occurred yesterday.

"Our heartfelt thoughts for the families, the Pike River community and all New Zealanders go out at this time."