Speaking on his move to Edinburgh, Ben Meyer said: "I am happy to be coming to Scotland and looking forward to the new challenges of playing top class rugby in the Magners League and the Heineken Cup. I am keen to have the same impact on Edinburgh that both Todd Blackadder and Brendan Laney had when they moved from New Zealand."

Head coach Lynn Howells said: "I am delighted that Ben is joining us as we were looking for an experienced scrum half and he fits the bill. As well as being a quality player, he is a very good organiser and communicator. He was highly regarded when he played in Italy as someone who could lead a team on the pitch. His adherence to strict fitness regimes will also hopefully take the squad to a new level."

Executive Chairman Alex Carruthers added: "Having identified positions that needed strengthening with the coaching staff, we are delighted to have a player of Ben's calibre joining us next season. His signing will further strengthen the squad in the world cup year when Mike Blair is likely to be with Scotland and John Senio with Samoa."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

BEN MEYER
Scrum half. Born: 15.11.1977 in New Zealand. Height 5ft 11in (1.81m). Weight: 14st 2lb (90kgs).

Playing history:
1998: North Harbour, North Harbour sevens (national finalists), NZ Sevens training camp.
1999: North Harbour Sevens (national champions), North Harbour Development Team (national champions), NZ Barbarians, NZ Sevens training camp.
2000: Blues in Super 12, Auckland in NPC, captain of NZ University, NZ Sevens training camp.
2001: Northland.
2002: Blues, NZ Sevens training camp.
2003: Blues, North Harbour, Leonessa.
2004 and 2005: Blues, North Harbour.
2006: Captain of Counties Manukau.