Superintendent Gary Knowles advises he is unable to attend the Pike River memorial service. He is currently on leave and has prior family commitments.
New Zealand Police will be represented by Commissioner Peter Marshall, Assistant Commissioner David Cliff and West Coast Area Commander Inspector John Canning.
Superintendent Knowles has offered his condolences to the families of the miners and contractors killed at Pike River, and to the wider West Coast community impacted by the tragic events of 19 November 2010.
Media inquiries to Tasman Police Communications Manager Ph 03 5459843.