The New Zealand Prime Minister John Key says there is every chance the 29 men missing after Friday's coal mine explosion in New Zealand are still alive. There has been no contact with the men since the blast at the Pike River mine near Greymouth on the South Island.Families are still waiting for the rescue to begin but the presence of toxic gases are making it too dangerous to enter the mine.Meanwhile, drilling has started on a six inch wide ventilation shaft. Rescuers hope to send a camera down once the hole is finished to see if the men are nearby. They also hope to test gas levels.Mr. Key said he had been advised the miners who include 24 New Zealanders, two Australians, two Britons and a South African may have found refuge in a ventilated spot and could still be rescued.Grey District mayor Tony Kokshoorn told reporters that a robot was also being prepared, which will be sent into the mine later to check if there is a clear path for rescuers.