Satyanand: Grief will be felt for years

The Governor-General, Sir Anand Satyanand, said tonight that grief from the deaths of the 29 Pike River mine workers "will be felt for many years to come".

He said in a statement he and his wife Susan learned of the death with "deep sadness".

"We join all New Zealanders in extending our deep sympathy to the families, friends, colleagues and communities...

"This is a disaster that will be felt at many levels. First and foremost, it is a great personal loss for the individual families and friends of those who died.

"The wider West Coast community will also feel keenly the loss of those they have known as friends, neighbours and workmates.

"There will be few on the West Coast who do not have a shared connection of some kind with those on whom this tragedy has impacted most directly.

"Sadly the West Coast has had to face other tragedies in the past. The collective strength of the community will again be vital in facing this event, and in dealing with the enormous sense of grief that will be felt for many years to come.

Sir Anand said it was important to acknowledge the efforts of those involved in the search and rescue operation. "Their commitment and dedication will be deeply appreciated."

"To the families and people of the West Coast: may you all support each other in the knowledge that the wider New Zealand community grieves alongside you."

- NZPA