Zen Drew

Zen Drew. Photo / Supplied

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Zen Wodin Drew was a building apprentice for a company contracted to Pike River Coal.

The former Buller High School student had just celebrated his 21st birthday, and lived in Cobden, a suburb in the north of Greymouth.

His father, Laurie Drew, wore his son's jacket while being tearfully interviewed two days after after the explosion.

"He is a precious boy, I spoke to some of his colleagues, they've all got high regards for him because he was so efficient with things. He's just what you want out of a son."

Mr Drew said his son was still young and had his whole life ahead of him, but said "reality is hitting".

"We're hopeful, but we've also got to be realistic - it's been a few days now, there's been no sounds, no noise or anything."

Mr Drew said he just wanted to tell his son he loved him.