New Images from Pike River Mine

New images have been obtained from the latest borehole drilled at the Pike River Mine.

Work began on the first two of ten additional boreholes in late January.

Drilling was completed about a week ago, and both holes provided good images.

Detective Superintendent Darryl Sweeney says the initial analysis provides useful information while investigating the video further.

“Images taken from the second hole at the main fan location showed significant damage.

“You can see the road that connects the fan area and the drift has completely collapsed.

“You can see the fan shaft and part of the housing for the fan blades, as well as the fan motor.

“All new images provide further information to the ongoing criminal investigation into the first explosion at the mine in November 2010,” Sweeney said.

Drill rigs have been moved to two drilling sites: At the end of the drift, an area known as Spaghetti Junction, and the intersection near the Goaf Intake Road.

Drilling of the borehole will take five to ten days, depending on the weather, and imaging is expected to occur within two weeks.

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Published by Police Media Center