Explosion charges laid after mine damaged

Four men have been charged with arson after explosives were set off in an historic quartz mine on the West Coast, causing significant damage.

• This story was first published by RNZ 

Police say a group of people entered the Big River Quartz Mine between June 10 and July 7 this year.

The area is a category 1 historic place and the explosion caused significant damage to a 12-metre-high structure above the mine shaft.

A film of the offending was shared on social media, prompting inquiries in Reefton and Hokitika.

Last week, police executed five search warrants at residential addresses.

Six men were arrested, with four aged between 20 and 53 due to appear in the Greymouth District Court tomorrow.

Police inquiries are ongoing to try and find other people suspected of being involved.

Anyone who has any information which may assist is asked to contact police on 105 and quote file number 210707/6710.