The mine is composed of two open pits, with the proceeds of the operation funding an underground mining operation, accessed by a ramp from surface and utilizing both transverse and longitudinal long-hole stoping methods.

The Geological Survey of Finland initiated exploration which resulted in a discovery of gold mineralization.

Provided they are able to acquire larger trucks, Agnico will increase their monthly tonnage to 100,000 tonnes (110,000 short tons).

Access tunnels are 8 metres (26 ft) wide, which will permit the use of haul trucks up to 60-tonne capacity.

The carbon is removed from the leached material and the gold is smelted into 800-ounce (23 kg) Doré bars, which are sent off-site for further refining.

Kittila realizes an average gold recovery of 92%, and has the capacity to produce up to four bars per week.

The shelter is open for viewing by visitors and contains emergency supplies such as oxygen tanks, food, drink and a set of golf clubs.