The developer of the proposed Bendigo-Ophir gold project has secured the massive financial backing required to move from exploration to construction.

In a statement to the ASX and NZX on Tuesday, Santana Minerals confirmed it has received "firm commitments" to raise A$130M (approx. NZ$152.1M) from "institutional and sophisticated investors".

The company emerged from a trading halt following the announcement.

Chief executive Damian Spring said the funds will "accelerate our pathway to production" by paying for early civil infrastructure works and placing deposits on major equipment.

According to the market update, the move is designed to ensure the company can begin work immediately if final resource consents are granted.

In a boost for local shareholders, the company's announcement also detailed a share purchase plan.

This allows existing investors in New Zealand and Australia to apply for up to A$24,948 (approx. NZ$29,200) worth of new shares at the same discounted price of A$0.90 (approx. NZ$1.05) offered to the large institutions.

Alongside the financial maneuvers, the local conversation remains active.

Santana Minerals reported plenty of interest at the Central Otago A&P Show on Saturday, saying close to 200 people dropped by their tent.

According to a post on the company’s Facebook page, the most common question from locals was, “So… when do you start digging?”.

The company said their youngest visitors included a "sharp group of students from Poolburn School" who are already shareholders.

"People came with real curiosity and plenty of straight-talk," the post said.

"Some raised concerns, many shared encouragement."

Sustainable Tarras shares a video message from former prime minister Helen Clark. Image: Screengrab/Facebook

However, the opposition is also ramping up its profile.

Community group Sustainable Tarras shared a video to their Facebook page this week featuring former prime minister Helen Clark, who urged those concerned about the environmental impact of the mine to add their voices to collective opposition.

"Speak up. Spupport those who are asking for proper consideration to be given to future planning, the environment, communities and iwi," she said in the video.

"Let us all help shape the future of the country we love with proper care and attention. We are its guardians."

The latest developments come just days after reports of escalating tension in the community, including claims of online abuse directed at those publicly opposing the project, which is being considered under a fast-track consenting pathway.

The expert panel appointed to decide the mine's fate is officially scheduled to begin its work next week, which will mark the start of a 140-working-day timeframe, with a final decision required by October 29.

Read more: Santana mine to face 140-day fast-track assessment and Claims of threatening behaviour escalate mine tensions

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