Santana Minerals (SMI) Diggers & Dealers Mining Forum 2026 summary

Project permitting and regulatory progress

• Application for environmental permits submitted under New Zealand's fast track legislation, with a final decision expected by December 16.

• Fast track process is ongoing despite upcoming general elections, with 26 projects approved so far, including significant mining operations.

• Project has received Overseas Investment Office consent for land purchase, extinguishing landowner royalties.

Project overview and resource details

• Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project is a substantial, high-margin gold development on freehold land in Central Otago.

• Four deposits span a 5 km strike, with a reserve of 1.2 million ounces at 2.75 g/t and a resource of 2.1 million ounces at 2.4 g/t.

• High-grade core (HG1) extends nearly 2 km down plunge, with consistent intercepts and significant exploration upside.

Development plan and operational highlights

• Simple staged development: open pit followed by underground mining, with flexibility to start decline independently.

• Project benefits from triple the grade and free-milling ore compared to regional peers.

• Infrastructure advantages include proximity to highways, water, power, and skilled workforce.