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SGS Operates PhotonAssay at OceanaGold’s Macraes Mine, Transforming On-Site Gold Analysis

April 02, 2025

We are pleased to announce, we have expanded our collaboration with OceanaGold as they introduce the first PhotonAssay unit into New Zealand. The unit, supplied by Chrysos was deployed at OceanaGold's Macraes mine site, the largest active gold-producing mine in the country. SGS will operate the technology alongside other analysis services. As samples are beginning to be processed, the project marks a significant commitment to world-class solutions that enhance accuracy, efficiency and environmental sustainability in mineral analysis.

A faster, safer, more sustainable approach

PhotonAssay is a non-destructive analysis that delivers a faster, safer, and more environmentally friendly approach to analysing gold, silver, copper and other complimentary elements by using high energy X-rays to excite atomic nuclei. This technology offers a fast, accurate and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fire assay methods samples, providing results in as little as two minutes.

Improving efficiency

PhotonAssay will improve operational efficiency and significantly reduce turnaround times for gold assay for faster informed decision-making. As a global leader in gold analysis services, we provide a wide range of solutions to support the mining industry’s evolving needs. With a focus on innovation, sustainability and operational excellence, we offer comprehensive services that enhance safety, efficiency and optimise mining operations worldwide.

For further details on how our services can support the success of your project, contact us.

About OceanaGold

OceanaGold is a growing intermediate gold and copper producer committed to safely and responsibly maximising the generation of Free Cash Flow from our operations and delivering strong returns for our shareholders.

OceanaGold has a portfolio of four operating mines: the Haile Gold Mine in the United States of America; Didipio Mine in the Philippines; and the Macraes and Waihi operations in New Zealand.

OceanaGold’s Macraes Operation in the South Island of New Zealand is the country’s largest active gold producing mine, with over 600 people employed between the Macraes Operation and the Dunedin Office. It has produced over five million ounces of gold since 1990.

The operation consists of a large-scale surface mine, an underground mine, and an adjacent process plant. Its annualised gold production is split approximately 75% to open pit production and about 25% underground production.

About SGS

SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).

  • SGS New Zealand Limited

Level 1, 7 Albert Street,

Auckland Central, 1061,

Auckland, New Zealand