Borehole drilling progressing at Pike River mine

Police, Pike River Coal Limited (in Receivership) and representatives of the Receivers met yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, 2 February) with families of the men who died in the mine as part of Police's regular weekly update on the operation.

Inspector Mark O'Connor said the 35 family representatives present were advised that no date had yet been confirmed for the handover of the mine from Police to the receivers, but that it would not be this week.

"The parties involved are taking the time to ensure we get a seamless transition that will focus on safety and planning ahead. There are process issues to be worked through that are not related to the ongoing work to monitor the mine," Inspector O'Connor said.

Families were advised that borehole 47 had been completed and scan images had been collected and are currently being examined and evaluated.

Drilling of borehole 46 was within 20m of holing into the mine when weather halted operations yesterday. Drilling resumed this morning and, weather permitting, may be completed today.