The Pike River Mine, located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, was the site of a catastrophic explosion that claimed the lives of 29 miners. This explosion, which was the first of four that day, was caused by a buildup of methane gas that ignited within the mine shaft. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched, but their efforts were hampered by ongoing unsafe conditions due to high levels of gas. The miners trapped underground included both local and foreign workers, reflecting the diverse workforce typical of the mining industry. None of the trapped miners were ever located, marking the disaster as a significant loss for the local community and the nation as a whole.

The Pike River disaster prompted national reflection on mining safety practices in New Zealand. In the aftermath, governmental and independent inquiries were initiated to evaluate the circumstances that led to the explosion and the effectiveness of safety measures in place at the mine. These inquiries revealed systemic failures in ensuring safe working conditions and regulatory oversight. Public outrage grew as families of victims sought accountability and justice for their loved ones. The disaster served as a grim reminder of the risks inherent in mining and the need for stringent safety measures to prevent future tragedies.