Assay results from the first four of its six-hole program are in. The best result was a 5.8m intersection grading 1.2gpt gold from 180m down.

This was struck at the southern Kisi zone of TPJ's Kisi-Soon Poet prospects, while the other three holes were drilled at the northern Kisi zone.

"No significant assay was returned from hard rock drill core," TPJ said.

But the London-based explorer was not deterred. It said high-grade rock chip results showed the area was a significant mineralising system.

"Low-sulphidation epithermal deposits are notoriously elusive, and a great deal of patience and perseverance is generally required prior to success," TPJ said.

Meanwhile, the diamond core rig is drilling the Arie porphyry prospect on the island. The three holes will have a combined depth of about 1400m.

"It is anticipated that Newcrest will have completed its review of both the Kisi and Arie prospects and decided upon its next steps during January 2013."