The transformation process underway at Gold Fields’ South Deep gold mine “will continue to gain traction through the June quarter, and should result in greater stability and improved productivity during the second half of the year,” said CEO Nick Holland in the company’s results for the March 2014 quarter.

“This should provide a strong foundation for improved performance from South Deep and de-risk the momentum and sustainability of the new build-up plan,” said Holland.

Production expected to be 10% lower

He cautioned that, as a result of the temporary disruption and loss of momentum caused by the implementation of the transformation process, production for the full year is expected to be around 10% lower than the full-year guidance of 360,000 ounces.

However, destress mining is expected to be on guidance at 54,600m², thus providing an important underpin for the build-up plan.

South Deep is expected to achieve its AISC guidance for the full year of $1,290/oz and AIC of $1,350/oz.