In New Zealand, 27 miners are trapped, but rescue efforts have been delayed because of a gas leak.  The New Zealand trapped miners are in essence now like the Chilean miners, although with the gas leak there’s going to have to be some serious planning to get them out safe.

Special teams will have to rescue the trapped miners.  The mine became blocked after a gas explosion that occurred shortly after a power outage that could have caused a gas buildup contributing to the explosion in the ventilation shaft.

It’s not certain if the trapped miners in New Zealand are still alive, but after the recent Chilean miner miracle, everyone has hope that they will be able to safely recover the miners, and that they will all be discovered alive.  However, there’s no word on whether the 27 unaccounted for are still alive, or what the air conditions are in the mine.  The 27 trapped miners are 15 mine employees and 12 local contractors.

What are your thoughts on the New Zealand trapped miners? We will keep you informed as this story develops.  We truly hope that all those missing will be found and returned to their families.