International experts say they are shocked a mining disaster the magnitude of the Pike River tragedy occurred in a modern mine.

Liquid nitrogen could be used to stabilise the situation in the Pike River mine, experts told the Science Media Centre.

Mines Rescue workers who wanted to save 29 men trapped underground in the Pike River coal mine remain united in their desire to get their brothers back, their leader says.

A large jet engine which stabilises gases may be used to quench the fire in the Pike River coal mine so that rescuers can safely recover the bodies of 29 men inside.

NZ is a nation in mourning as memorial services are held, condolence books arranged, and candles lit throughout the country.

He has to accept he has lost a son. But Marty Palmer won't give up until his son's body is back with the family so they can mourn properly.

Even the biggest concert of the year acknowledged the sombre mood of the nation. U2's Bono said the band felt privileged to be

Police Commissioner Howard Broad today praised the work of Superintendent Gary Knowles, the police officer who led the mission to rescue 29 miners.

Bells tolled and flags were lowered to half mast today to pay tribute to the 29 miners lost in the Pike River tragedy.

Check here for developments in the wake of the Pike River mine disaster today.

The family of Queenslander Willy Joynson want answers about why dangerous levels of gas were not detected before last Friday's blast.

Pike River Coal says all its staff are being kept on full pay, with some being reassigned to jobs including helping out at the mine site

Levels of dangerous gases at the Pike River mine are still high and rescuers are unable to enter to recover the bodies of 29 trapped men, police said this afternoon.

A mining expert explains how to 'gag' a mine to make it safe for bodies to be recovered and gives his view on the second blast.

The families of some of the men trapped in the Pike River mine expressed sorrow rather than anger at a meeting today, John Key says.

World leaders are sending support and sympathy to the families of the men who died at the Pike River coal mine.

Rescue authorities are vowing to recover the bodies of the 29 miners - but admit they don't know when it will happen.

'People find just that extra little bit, they take a deep breath, they will raise the bar…,' Grey District Mayor Tony Kokshoorn says.

A series of high-level inquiries will be held into the Pike River mine tragedy as the families of the miners demand answers.