Pike River receivers set to take over

File photo / Bay of Plenty Times

Receivers look set to take over the Pike River mine next week.

John Key met the families of the 29 miners in Greymouth yesterday before a fundraiser took place in Christchurch to raise money for the Pike River relief fund.

Families spokesman, Bernie Monk, says talks with the Prime Minister focused on the day of the explosion, right through until the present day. "I think he's got us at heart, he wants our loved ones out as much as we do", he told Newstalk ZB.

He said the receivers were to take over the mine on the 18th, and the prime minister assured them he would be keeping a close eye on developments.

The fundraising event in Christchurch raised more than $100,000 for the Pike River relief fund, with special auction items like a boot signed by Dan Carter and afternoon tea with John Key being sold off.

- NEWSTALK ZB