GAG machine back up and running

The entrance to the Pike River mine. Photo / Simon Baker

The GAG machine which is pumping water vapour into the Pike River mine to put out any fires is back up and running after being shut down overnight for repairs.

Staff were evacuated for two hours from the mine site at 5.30am after gas levels climbed sharply.

This caused oxygen levels to rise significantly, increasing the risk of further fires.

Police spokeswoman Barbara Dunn told NZPA the GAG (Gorniczy Agregat Gasniczy) started up again at 3.30pm and it would take about six hours to establish an environment where gas levels could be accurately taken.

The evacuation highlighted the dangers of working at the mine, Superintendent Gary Knowles said today.

Workers are trying to ensure it is safe enough to enter the mine and try to recover the bodies of 29 men, killed in a series of explosions since November 19.

Mr Knowles said police would not endanger any lives in what was clearly a volatile situation.

An Australian nitrogen generator was working to cool the mine down and that had been running all day, Ms Dunn said.

Canterbury University Geologist Professor David Bell is at the mine assessing the situation and providing further expert opinion on the best options for managing the situation.

- NZPA