Pike River

A catastrophic gas explosion shocked the Pike River coal mine on 19 November 2010, claiming the lives of 29 men who were trapped inside. Unknown to those involved, a perfect storm of systemic failures had been brewing right from the outset of the mine's planning and construction. This docudrama recounts the disaster through dramatic reenactments blended with interviews from the families, policymakers and safety and mining experts involved in the tragedy. Pike River takes an unflinching look at the human cost of profit-driven decisions and the tragedy's impact on those left behind.

We have the ability to keep people safe at work. Sometimes we lack the will, and sometimes the driver for that lack of will is money . . . the mighty golden carrot.

– Pike River safety training manager Neville Rockhouse on the mine's safety shortcuts

Key Cast & Crew

Adam Gardiner

As: Gordon Ward

Sofia Wenborn

Director - Documentary

Roy Billing

As: Peter Whittall

Rupert Mackenzie

Director

Philly de Lacey

Producer, Executive Producer

Dave Cameron

Cinematographer