Cyclone Metals (ASX:CLE) has identified new gold exploration targets following the completion of geochemical sampling and early-stage exploration across its wholly owned Waikerikeri (PP60708) and Drybread (PP60707) prospecting permits in Central Otago, New Zealand.
The programs defined anomalous gold and multi-element responses that highlight previously unrecognised targets in areas that had never been geochemically sampled.
Both projects are located within approximately 15km of Santana Minerals' Rise and Shine–related gold systems, strengthening the regional prospectivity.
Cyclone applied the Ionic Leach geochemical technique to minimise the effects of transported alluvial cover and to better detect subtle geochemical haloes associated with structurally controlled hard-rock gold mineralisation.
Results from the Moutere, Matakanui and Glassfords areas returned coherent and expanded zones of anomalism, while the Lauder Station area showed weak and patchy responses and will not be prioritised for further work.
At Drybread, strong pathfinder element responses including arsenic, antimony and tungsten—elements rarely associated with purely alluvial gold—suggest a potential primary source linked to basement structures such as the Drybread No. 3 Fault, which parallels the Dunstan Range Fault.
Comparisons with Cyclone's Mareburn Project indicate that some pathfinder responses at Glassfords exceed those recorded over known Macraes-style mineralisation.
Managing Director Paul Berend said the results are encouraging, noting that the multi-element signatures support the potential for undiscovered primary gold systems beneath shallow cover.
Cyclone plans to use the findings to refine targets and guide the next phase of exploration in Central Otago.