Mine owner Lion One Metals poured first gold after building the Tuvatu alkaline gold project ahead of schedule.

Mill construction began in August 2022 and commissioning in September 2023.

The mill is expected to ramp up to 300 tonnes per day by the end of October before being expanded to 500tpd in mid-2024.

The first gold pour coincided with Fiji Day on October 10.

Lion One chairman and chief executive officer Walter Berukoff said the first gold pour at Tuvatu was a landmark event in the history of the company.

"We have successfully transitioned from explorer to producer and have delivered on our promise to build the South Pacific's newest gold mine in the heart of Fiji," he said.

Berukoff said completing construction ahead of schedule was testament to the strength and resilience of the Fijian spirit.

"This marks the beginning of our next phase of growth as we look forward to ramping up to commercial production at Tuvatu and to advancing our many other top-quality prospects throughout the Navilawa Caldera."